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The
primary dimension of any composite is the interface. The interface
is the area where the different materials in a composite coincide.
In order to have a successful, applicable composite, one must form an interface
that is strong and favorable towards maximum compatibility. A good
interface is imperative for a material to survive under stress.
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In viewing the above graphic of a fiber reinforced matrix, one can see the presence of a medium that has both the characteristics of the fiber and the matrix. The size of this gradient, the chemical interaction, and the number of gradients present in a composite determine the strength and application of the material. The same concept holds true for blends. The interphase created between the components must achieve some level of favorable interaction to prevent the materials from "keeping to themselves" or phase separating. If phase separation occurs in a blend, then a combination of properties is likely to be unsuccessful.
For information on characterization of composite blends please click here: Blends
For information on the analyses of fibers and matrix/fiber interphases, please select the following avenues of techniques:
1. ESCA-Electron
spectroscopy for chemical analysis
XPS-X-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy
2. FTIR/ATR-Fourier transform infrared analysis/attenuated total reflectance
3. STM-Scanning tunneling
microscopy
SEM-Scanning
electron microscopy
6. NMR-Nuclear magnetic resonance
7. DSC-Differential scanning calorimetry
7. Physical tests
of fibers and matrices
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Or take this cool and exciting interphase quiz.