Influence study of copper and zinc coatings on properties of carbon fibers and composites based on them

Two types of metallic coatings (copper and zinc) were deposited on the surface of a unidirectional carbon tape by the method of magnetron sputtering. Results of experimental evaluation of strength of elementary carbon fibers with these metallic coatings and carbon-reinforced plastics based on them are presented. It has been found that the copper coating increases strength of the fibers and the carbon-reinforced plastics in case of the interlaminar displacement. The zinc coating decreases strength of the fibers and composites based on them. Parameters of the carbon fibers with metallic coatings after long-term storage of metallized carbon tapes are presented.