Title: Rapid Cryogenic Immersion Effects on Bond Integrity in Metal– and Carbon Fiber–Polymer Interfaces

Authors: Ana De Leon, Emma Martin, Mitesh Patadia, Alexander Hamberg, Charlotte Ormond, Roy Rudd, Aniket Ingrole, Peter Cheetham, Rebekah Downes

DOI:

Abstract: This study investigates the interfacial behavior of two composite systems: carbon fiber reinforced with EPON 862 epoxy (CF/EP862) and stainless steel laminated HTS wire bonded with EP29 LPSP epoxy (HTS/EP29) under ambient (25 °C) and cryogenic (−196 °C) conditions. Pullout tests, dynamic mechanical analysis, surface roughness measurements, and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate interfacial shear strength (IFSS), failure modes, and surface morphology. Results show that HTS/EP29 exhibits a ~156 % increase in IFSS at −196 °C due to residual compressive stresses from differential thermal contraction, while CF/EP862 experiences a ~31 % reduction in IFSS as the epoxy becomes brittle and stick–slip behavior emerges. Surface roughness significantly enhances mechanical interlocking in CF/EP862 but has minimal effect in HTS/EP29. These findings highlight the combined roles of resin stiffness, thermal contraction, interfacial adhesion, and reinforcement surface characteristics in determining interfacial performance under rapid thermal shock. The study provides insights into the design of composites intended for extreme temperature applications, including aerospace and cryogenic systems

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Conference: SAMPE 2026

Publication Date: 2026/04/27

SKU: 111

Pages: 11

Price: $22.00