Interphase engineering with nanofillers in fiber-reinforced polymer composites

This chapter surveys recent advancements in the interphase engineering of fiber-reinforced polymer composites using different nanofillers. The nanofillers are classified based on their aspect ratio. The strategies followed are discussed separately for stress transfer improvement or adding functionality in the interphase. For improved stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber the nanofillers are deposited on the surface of the reinforcements by different techniques resulting in physical or chemical adhesion. Bulk matrix modification enhances the interphase properties, as well. Special attention is paid to report on efforts focused on the creation of (multi)functional interphase in polymer composites by using nanofillers. Added functionalities provide sensing, self-healing and damping properties. This chapter also includes state-of-the-art knowledge on the characterization and modelling of the interphase. In the outlook section some challenges and perspectives in the engineering of fiber/matrix interphase are summarized.