MODIFIED FIBERS FOR USE IN THE FORMATION OF THERMOPLASTIC FIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITE ARTICLES AND PROCESS

摘要

A surface-modified fibrous material is provided for incorporation in a thermoplastic matrix to form a fiber-reinforced composite article. Good binding between the fibrous material and the thermoplastic matrix is achieved through the presence of finely roughened surfaces on the fibers of nanoparticles of an inorganic material. Such nanoparticles are provided from an alkaline aqueous size composition containing the nanoparticles dispersed therein (as described). The fibrous material may be provided in continuous or discontinuous form. In a preferred embodiment glass fibers are initially provided in continuous form followed by cutting into discontinuous lengths and drying with the retention of the nanoparticles on the surfaces of the fibers. The surface-roughened fibrous material is incorporated in a thermoplastic matrix as fibrous reinforcement with the application of heat whereby the thermoplastic matrix is rendered melt processable. In preferred embodiments injection or compression molding is utilized. Improved long-fiber thermoplastics also may be formed to advantage.

主权项

1. Surface-roughened glass fibers comprising:
glass fibers; nanoparticles attached to the glass fibers, wherein the nanoparticles provide a roughened surface to the glass fibers; a combination of silane compounds that include:
(i) at least one reactive silane; and(ii) at least one non-reactive silane, and a polymeric film former.