Morphological characterization of polyetheretherketone–carbon fiber composites

Abstract

The effect of processing conditions on the morphology of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) graphite reinforced composites (APC-2) has been characaterized. Differential scanning calorimetry was utilized to examine the effect of quench rate on recrystallization where a change in mechanism was observed at a rate of 5°C/min. Optical microscopy revealed a decrease in spherulite size and a reduced degree of transcrystallinity at the graphic fiber surface with increasing quench rates. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated a change in relaxational processes in the Tg region with varying quench rates.