THERMAL ANALYSIS AND MICROSTRUCTURAL STUDY ON PHENOL COATED CFRP LAMINATES WITH ZrO2- GRAPHENE FILLERS

Abstract

This study focuses on the microstructural investigation of phenol-coated Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) laminates incorporated with Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) and graphene fillers, fabricated using the Vacuum Resin Transfer Molding (VRTM) process. The objective is to explore the effects of these fillers on the laminate’s mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. The study utilizes various characterization techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The laminates were fabricated using a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process, incorporating varying concentrations of ZrO₂ (0.5–2 wt%) and graphene (0.5–2 wt%) fillers. The results revealed that a synergistic combination of ZrO₂ and graphene fillers significantly improved the dispersion uniformity and interfacial bonding, resulting in enhanced mechanical properties such as tensile strength, modulus, and fracture toughness. Furthermore, thermal analysis indicated improved thermal stability and resistance to degradation at elevated temperatures. This study demonstrates the potential of hybrid ZrO₂-graphene fillers to optimize the performance of phenol-coated CFRP laminates for advanced structural applications, including aerospace and automotive industries.