Transversal friction of epoxy-lubricated and dry carbon tows: From initial stages to stabilised state

An experiment was designed and carried out to study the friction deformation of carbon fibre tow under sliding transverse orientation fibres. A continuous frictional force measured in reciprocal tests over a length about one width tow, as well incremental 4 mm with stop after each millimetre measure topography contact glass plate. Although coefficient depended on initial state first millimetres sliding, this effect tended disappear distance both dry epoxy-lubricated conditions. Four stages were identified related underlying mechanisms: internal stress relaxation, shear microslips at interfaces, macroslip external relaxation end sliding.