Development and Evaluation of a Nanofibrous Enhanced CFRP Sandwich Composite as a Satellite Optical Payload Interface Plate

ABSTRACT

This study, conducted under an ESA‐PECS funded initiative, investigates the integration of a PVDF‐based electrospun nanofabrics, doped with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), into carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates. The modified unidirectional prepreg system, developed, is under consideration for future implementation in a sandwich composite Payload Interface Plate (PIP). To evaluate its performance, experimental characterization was carried out on monolithic CFRP laminates with and without the nanofibrous interlayer. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and thermomechanical analysis (TMA) were conducted to evaluate damping and thermal expansion characteristics, respectively. Compared to the control, the enhanced specimens exhibited a 22.18% increase in tanδ (loss factor), indicating superior energy dissipation, alongside an 18.96% increase in storage modulus. Furthermore, TMA results revealed a reduction in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) in the 90° (transverse) direction—dominated by matrix behavior, suggesting improved in‐plane thermal dimensional stability arising from interfacial nanofiber‐matrix interactions. These results demonstrate the potential of nano‐enhanced interlayer technologies for improving the dynamic and thermo‐ mechanical performance CFRP laminates. Such improvements support the integration of these materials into precision aerospace structures, notably in optical payload systems where thermal tolerance is critical.