This research presents a rigorous quantitative analysis of the aging characteristics exhibited by adhesively bonded joints constructed using an epoxy film adhesive applied onto Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) substrates. The investigation focuses on evaluating the durability of the CFRP-epoxy adhesive system under accelerated aging conditions through Boeing Wedge Tests (BWT). Comparative analyses were conducted, assessing the efficacy of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Treatment (APPT) against conventional methods (Peel Ply and Isopropanol Cleaning) for preparing adherends. Comprehensive characterization encompassed contact angle measurements, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). It is observed that Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Treatment not only successfully eliminated contamination from the initial CFRP substrate surface but also induced the formation of numerous polar groups (e.g., C-O, O-C=O, C=O). This transformation positively impacted the wettability and interfacial bonding strength of CFRP substrates, leading to a substantial improvement in durability even when subjected to harsh aging conditions in plasma treated CFRP joints. The results from the Boeing Wedge Test (BWT) revealed a notable 34.5% enhancement in the Mode I fracture toughness energy release rate (GIC) for surfaces treated with plasma when compared to surfaces prepared with peel ply. ORCID NO: 0000-0001-8706-264X
Anahtar Kelimeler: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer, Atmospheric pressure plasma treatment, Environmental durability, Surface physicochemical properties, Boeing wedge test.
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