Adhesive bonding of a mixed short and continuous carbon-fiber-reinforced Nylon-6 composite made via fused filament fabrication

Abstract This experimental work aims at evaluating the mechanical and failure behavior of adhesive-bonded single-lap joints made a thermoplastic composite 3D-printed via Fused Filament Fabrication technology. Carbon fiber was selected as reinforcement used in form both short continuous fibers embedded Nylon-6 matrix, forming composite's hybrid structure. An approach based on progressive improvement surface treatment effectiveness (solvent degreasing, abrasion, low-pressure plasma) has been adopted to verify how additively-manufactured responds bonding when increased interfacial adhesion is attained by preparing outer printed layer. Roughness measurements, wettability evaluations, XPS analyses have carried out assess any modifications morphology functionalization exhibited different surfaces after treatment. The findings demonstrate that intrinsic non-homogeneity composites emphasized plasma used, it generates bonds between adhesive adherend are more effective than interlaminar ones within substrate. In this condition, ultimate resistance joint corresponds base material. particular, fracture-mechanism analysis allowed precise identification crack path, highlighting defects current limitations system suggesting pivotal aspects develop future improve performance.