Interfacial Bonding and Performance of Polymer-Based CFRP Composites in Externally Applied Configurations

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | Special Issue 01 | Page : 952 966
    By

    A. Avaneesh Pushpasai,

  • M. HemaPriya,

  • A. Arivumangai,

  • J. Faney,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Professor, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  4. Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Polymer-based carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used for externally bonded strengthening and retrofitting applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and adaptability to existing structures. In such systems, overall performance is governed not only by the fiber–matrix interaction within the laminate, but more critically by the polymer adhesive layer and its interaction with the substrate. Polymer chemistry, interfacial bonding mechanisms, processing conditions, and environmental exposure collectively influence load transfer efficiency, mechanical performance, durability, and long-term service reliability. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of interfacial bonding in polymer-based CFRP systems with a specific focus on externally applied configurations. Key interfacial mechanisms, including mechanical interlocking, physical interactions, and chemical bonding, are critically examined alongside the role of adhesive polymer systems and curing processes. The effects of environmental exposure on durability and service life are discussed, with particular emphasis on degradation at the adhesive–substrate interface. Emerging sustainable polymer systems, including bio-based, recyclable, and reprocess able matrices, are also evaluated in terms of their applicability and limitations for externally bonded CFRP applications. Unlike prior reviews that primarily address fiber–matrix interphases in bulk composites, this work emphasizes polymer–adhesive–substrate interactions and integrates polymer chemistry, interfacial mechanisms, processing, durability, modeling, and sustainability within a unified, design-oriented framework for externally bonded CFRP systems.

Keywords: Polymer-based composites, CFRP, interfacial bonding, adhesive polymers, externally applied configurations, polymer matrices, composite performance, durability.

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer & Composites (jopc)]

How to cite this article:
A. Avaneesh Pushpasai, M. HemaPriya, A. Arivumangai, J. Faney. Interfacial Bonding and Performance of Polymer-Based CFRP Composites in Externally Applied Configurations. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):952-966.
How to cite this URL:
A. Avaneesh Pushpasai, M. HemaPriya, A. Arivumangai, J. Faney. Interfacial Bonding and Performance of Polymer-Based CFRP Composites in Externally Applied Configurations. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):952-966. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=236546


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Special Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
Special Issue 01
Received 31/12/2025
Accepted 27/01/2026
Published 03/02/2026
Publication Time 34 Days
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