Microwave-assisted activation of high-modulus carbon fibres for interface engineering: Elucidating the distinct roles of electrostatic wetting and van der Waals locking

Key Points

• Activated carbon fibres demonstrate improved interface performance, enhancing overall material stability and strength.
• Key evidence shows that electrostatic wetting and van der Waals locking contribute differently to interface properties.
• Microwave-assisted activation was employed to study the interaction between carbon fibres and matrix materials in depth.
• These findings highlight the potential for improved manufacturing methods in advanced composite materials.