Thermotropic polyester amide‐carbon fiber composites

Liquid crystal polymers (LCP) have been developed for the first time as a thermoplastic matrix for high‐performance composites. A successful melt impregnation method has been developed that results in the production of continuous carbon fiber (CF)‐reinforced LCP prepreg tape. Subsequent layup and molding of prepreg into laminates has yielded composites of good quality. Tensile and flexural properties of LCP‐CF composites are comparable to those of epoxy‐CF composites. LCP‐CF composites have better impact resistance than the latter, although epoxy‐CF composites possess superior compression and shear strength. LCP‐CF composites have good property retention until 200°F (67% of room temperature value). Above 200°F, mechanical properties are found to decrease significantly. Experimental results indicate that the poor compression and shear strength may be due to the poor interfacial adhesion between the matrix and carbon fiber.