Abstract
The lap shear and T-peel strengths of n-butylacrylate/acrylic acid (nBA/AA)-copolymer-modified DGEBA adhesive were evaluated. Adherends used in this study included carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP), glass-fiber-reinforced plastics (GFRP), and aluminum. It was found that the adhesive strengths could be improved by incorporating nBA/AA copolymer in the DGEBA matrix. An optimum functionality of the copolymer existed for maximum lap shear strength. Morphological studies revealed that the adhesive strength was also influenced by the compatibility between the copolymer and the matrix, the property of the adherend as well as the addition of the bisphenol A.