Volume 39: Energy Transitions toward Carbon Neutrality: Part II

Effects of Surface Functionalization on Interface Bonding of Graphite/Epoxy Composites Dongmei Yao, Junsheng Zheng , Pingwen Ming

Abstract

Epoxy resin-reinforced graphite composite materials have found significant applications in the construction of fuel cell bipolar plates under stable power supply, owing to their lightweight and high durability characteristics. These composite materials are formulated by blending graphite with thermosetting resin and curing agent. The interfacial bonding between graphite and epoxy resin plays a pivotal role in determining the performance of these composites. Typically, the bonding between graphite and resin is governed by van der Waals forces, which possess relatively lower binding energy, rendering the interface susceptible to failure under external forces. To address this limitation, this study endeavors to modify the graphite surface with functional groups and adjust the process to facilitate a chemical bonding interface between graphite and resin. Characterization techniques reveal the formation of new chemical bonds between graphite and resin. Molecular dynamics simulations further validate the detailed mechanism through which this enhanced interface bonding elevates the mechanical performance of the composite material. This investigation offers valuable insights for the advancement of graphite-resin composite materials.

Keywords G/EP interface bonding, composite bipolar plate, molecular dynamic simulation, fuel cell