ABSTRACT
Plasma-polymerized organosilicon materials with controlled physicochemical properties seem to be promising materials for surface modification of glass fibers (GF) used as reinforcement for GF/polyester composites with a controlled interphase [1]. The deposited film must be a compatible interlayer forming a strong link between the reinforcing fiber and the polyester resin (polymer matrix). The interlayer together with an adjacent modified matrix, which is affected by the presence of the coated fiber, constitutes a 3D region, termed an interphase, less than 10 µm thick [2]. However, this subtle interphase may influence or even determine the composite performance (strength, toughness, durability) [3, 4]. Adhesion of the interlayer to the polymer matrix is one of the key factors influencing composite performance. Adhesion bonding at the polyester/interlayer interface has to be strong
to ensure stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber. The bonding must be realized through chemical bonds. Good wetting of the interlayer by polymer matrix during the impregnation stage of fabrication is a prerequisite for proper consolidation of composites based on unsaturated polyester (UP) resins [5].
