Microhardness and Microstructure of Thin-Film Metallic and Non-Metallic Coating on Fiber Reinforced Polymer Substrate

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites have a dominating position place in a variety of applications due to the increased specific strength and modulus. C-FRP composite is the most appealing choice for fabricating massive structural bodies like airplanes, automobiles, blades of wind power generation, and so on. SiC-FRP is used in a range of different applications from water pipes or drains coverings to electronic enclosures. Natural fiber derived from plants is gradually replacing synthetic fiber as a reinforcement for polymer composites. One of the key issues with these components is their metallic and electrical properties. Therefore, in this study, atmospheric plasma spray is used to fabricate thick Tungsten Carbide and Chromium Carbide onto C-FRP, SiC-FRP, and natural Bamboo-FRP substrate. Coated specimens were examined for Micro-hardness and Micro-structure. Results showed that the coating has sufficient adhesion strength with drastically improved properties.