Influence of hybrid matrix components on changes in impact strength of carbon plastics under extremely low temperatures in Arctic

Abstract

The results of tests to determine the impact strength of carbon fiber reinforced plastics based on an epoxy matrix and components that form an independent liquid phase in the composite structure (anaerobic polymer material (Loctite 638), silicone elastomer (Unisil-9628), synthetic wax) are presented. The tests were carried out after holding the samples at temperatures of 20±2 °C, –30 °C and –50 °C according to the Charpy method with the direction of an impact perpendicular to the plane. The use of an anaerobic polymer material as a component of the liquid phase of the hybrid matrix makes possible to obtain the highest impact strength among the compared types of carbon plastics and to ensure the stability of this characteristic after exposure at a temperature of –50°C. Synthetic wax in the structure of the composite matrix ensures the stability of impact strength after storage at a temperature of –30°C. Samples of carbon fiber reinforced plastics with silicone elastomer as part of the hybrid matrix have the lowest impact strength after holding under different temperature conditions.