Colloid, interface, and foam properties of water-soluble polyglycerol esters solutions.

HYPOTHESIS: Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids are generated via the esterification of a polydisperse mixture of polyglycerol with naturally derived fatty acids. The polymerization process of polyglycerol results in the production of various oligomers, ranging from di-, tri-, and higher-order forms, which contribute to the complexity of final products. The combination of complementary experimental techniques and adequate theoretical interpretations can reveal the wide variety of their physicochemical properties. EXPERIMENTS: The colloid and interface properties of polyglyceryl mono-laurate, mono-stearate, mono-oleate, and a mixture of mono-caprylate and mono-caprate esters solutions were characterized by measurements of the electrolytic conductivity, static and dynamic surface tension, aggregate and micelle sizes and distributions, thin liquid film stability and stratification, and solubility in aqueous and in oil phases. The formation, stability, and bubble size distribution of foams generated from polyglycerol esters aqueous solutions were systematically investigated. FINDINGS: The low concentrations of double-tail molecules and fatty acids in polyglycerol esters affect considerably their micellar, aggregation, and vesicle formations in aqueous solutions. The theoretical data interpretation of polyglycerol esters isotherms and thin liquid films data provide information on the adsorption energies, excluded areas per molecule, interaction parameters of molecules at interfaces, surface electrostatic potential, and the size of micelles. Polyglyceryl mono-oleate exhibits spontaneous emulsification properties. Short chain length polyglycerol esters have excellent foaming ability but relatively low foam stability. The optimal weight fractions of the short-chain polyglyceryl esters and polyglyceryl mono-stearate mixtures with respect to good foaminess and foam stability upon Ostwald ripening are obtained. The reported physicochemical characterization of the water-soluble polyglycerol esters could be of interest to increase the range of their applicability in practice.

Mechanical and Electrical Conductivity Properties of Graphene/Cu Interfaces: A Theoretical Insight.

For graphene/copper (Gr/Cu) composites, achieving high-quality interfaces between Gr and Cu (strong interfacial bonding strength and excellent electron transport performance) is crucial for enabling their widespread applications in electronic devices. This study employs first-principles calculations and the nonequilibrium Green's function method to systematically investigate the mechanical and electrical conductivity properties of Cu(111)/Gr/Cu(111) interfaces with various stacking sequences and different forms of Gr. For these interface systems, the binding energy, separation work, charge transfer, and electrical conductivity across the interface were obtained. The results show that the top-fcc interface exhibits superior interfacial properties, characterized by relatively high binding energy (-3.00 eV/C atom) and separation work (≥0.78 J/m2), a small interfacial distance (2.85 Å), and enhanced electron transport capacity (2.12 G0/nm2). A bilayer form of Gr significantly reduces electronic conductance across the Gr/Cu interface by nearly 2.46 orders of magnitude. Furthermore, point defects in Gr, especially single-vacancy defects, disrupt the traditional trade-offs between mechanical and electrical performance, simultaneously enhancing mechanical performance by 7.50-124.36% and electrical performance by 33.02%. Additionally, stress mechanisms have been proposed to further enhance the interfacial electrical conductivity of Gr/Cu composites. The present study provides a theoretical basis for exploring the engineering applications of Gr/Cu composite materials.

Questioning the Representativeness of Damage Mechanisms in Single-Fiber Composites via In Situ Synchrotron X-Ray Holo-Tomography.

In fiber-reinforced polymer composites, the fiber-matrix interface controls stress transfer mechanisms, thereby affecting mechanical performance. Interfacial properties are often extracted via single-fiber composite tests. In these tests, the load is transferred from the polymer to the fiber through interfacial shear stresses, necessitating the evaluation of interfacial shear properties. To adopt these properties in the design of industrially relevant composites, one must assume that the damage mechanisms in single-fiber composites are representative of those in multi-fiber composites, consisting of highly aligned, unidirectional plies with high fiber volume fractions. That assumption, however, has never been validated. In this paper, the real-time damage development is monitored in single-fiber and multi-fiber composites using in situ X-ray holo-tomography at 150-nm pixel size. The technique enables the first-ever 3D detection of longitudinal interfacial debonding in carbon and glass single-fiber composites. This mechanism is not detected in multi-fiber composite specimens, suggesting that single-fiber composites are intrinsically unrepresentative of realistic composite behavior.

Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste: A Review of Multifunctional Pectins.

This review comprehensively explores the multifunctional applications of pectins derived from food waste and by-products, emphasizing their role as versatile biomaterials in the medical-related sectors. Pectins, known for their polyelectrolytic nature and ability to form hydrogels, influence the chemical composition, sensory properties, and overall acceptability of food and pharmaceutical products. The study presents an in-depth analysis of molecular parameters and structural features of pectins, such as the degree of esterification (DE), monosaccharide composition, galacturonic acid (GalA) content, and relative amounts of homogalacturonan (HG) and rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I), which are critical for their technofunctional properties and biological activity. Emphasis is placed on pectins obtained from various waste sources, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and nuts. The review also highlights the importance of structure-function relationships, especially with respect to the interfacial properties and rheological behavior of pectin solutions and gels. Biological applications, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities, are also discussed, positioning pectins as promising biomaterials for various functional and therapeutic applications. Recalled pectins can also support the growth of probiotic bacteria, thus increasing the health benefits of the final product. This detailed review highlights the potential of using pectins from food waste to develop advanced and sustainable biopolymer-based products.

A novel approach to predict the electrical conductivity of nanocomposites by a weak interphase around graphene network.

Herein, we offer a model for estimating the tunneling conductivity of polymer-graphene nanocomposites based on interfacial properties, the proportion of networked graphene, and the wettability value between the polymer medium and the filler. The interfacial properties are influenced by the minimum diameter of the nanosheets (Dc), whose conductivity can be transferred to the medium via interfacial conduction (τ). These parameters impact the actual aspect ratio and the volume proportion of the filler, which, in turn, control the onset of percolation and the proportion of nanosheets in the network. We apply all these parameters to develop a novel model for estimating the conductivity of graphene systems. The predictions obtained from this model across different parameter ranges are discussed. Additionally, experimental measurements are employed to evaluate the proposed equations. High filler conductivity enhances the nanocomposite's conductivity by a strong interfacial conduction. However, the conductivity cannot be transferred to the polymer medium under condition of weak interfacial conduction. Furthermore, a robust interphase and a small Dc contribute to increased conductivity. Ultimately, the developed equations accurately predict the onset of percolation and conductivity, validated by real experimental data.

Relationship between the interfacial properties of lactoferrin-(-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate covalent complex and the macroscopic properties of emulsions.

This study explored the relationship between the interfacial behavior of lactoferrin-(-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate covalent complex (LF-EGCG) and the stability of high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs). The formation of covalent bond between lactoferrin and polyphenol was verified by the increase in molecular weight. In LF-EGCG group, the surface hydrophobicity, interfacial pressure, and adsorption rate were decreased, while the molecular flexibility, interfacial film viscoelasticity, and interfacial protein content were increased. Meanwhile, LF-EGCG HIPPE possessed reduced droplet size, increased ζ-potential and stability. Rheology showed the viscoelasticity, structural recovery and gel strength of LF-EGCG HIPPE were improved, giving HIPPE inks better 3D printing integrity and clarity. Moreover, the free fatty acids (FFA) release of LF-EGCG HIPPE (62.6%) was higher than that of the oil group (50.1%). Therefore, covalent treatment effectively improved the interfacial properties of protein particles and the stability of HIPPEs. The macroscopic properties of HIPPEs were positively regulated by the interfacial properties of protein particles. The result suggested that the stability of emulsions can be improved by regulating the interfacial properties of particles.

Experimental Investigations and MD Simulation on Nanoparticle-Enhanced CO2-Responsive Foam (NECRF): Implications on CO2-EOR.

CO2-responsive foam (CRF) is a highly promising candidate for CO2-enhanced oil recovery (CO2-EOR) because it displays higher stability than the surfactant-stabilized foam owing to the formation of robust wormlike micelles (WLMs) upon exposure to CO2. In this work, the nanoparticle-enhanced CO2-responsive foam (NECRF) was properly prepared using lauryl ether sulfate sodium (LES)/diethylenetriamine/nano-SiO2, and its interfacial properties and EOR potential were experimentally and numerically assessed, aiming to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of NECRF as a novel CO2-EOR technique. It was found that the interfacial expansion elastic modulus increased 6-fold after CO2 stimulation. The modulus continued to increase with the introduction of nano-SiO2 owing to the pronounced synergistic effect of WLMs and nanoparticles. In addition to increasing the viscosity of the foaming liquid, WLMs and nano-SiO2 enhanced the shearing resistance of the NECRF as well. Calculations demonstrated that both the coarsening rate and the size distribution uniformity coefficient of NECRF were markedly lower than that of the LES foam, which subsequently inhibited NECRF decay and greatly improved its dynamic stability. Besides, molecular dynamics simulation revealed that adding inorganic salts to NECRF could notably enhance the foaming performance due to the intensified hydration of surfactant head groups and reduced binding energy of neighboring molecules. Nuclear magnetic resonance-assisted core flooding experiments validated the exceptional capacity of NECRF to sweep the low-permeability region and improve the conformance profile. Overall, these findings may provide valuable insights into the development and application of novel materials and strategies for the CO2-EOR.

Pickering Foam Stabilized by Diacylglycerol-Based Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Effect of Protein Modification.

Pickering foams have great potential for applications in aerated foods, but their foaming ability and physical stability are still far from satisfactory. Herein, solid lipid particles (SLNs) were fabricated by using diacylglycerol of varying acyl chain lengths with modification by a protein. The SLNs showed different crystal polymorphisms and air-water interfacial activity. C14-DAG SLN with a contact angle ∼ 79° formed aqueous foam with supreme stability and high plasticity. Whey protein isolate and sodium caseinate (0.1 wt %) considerably enhanced the foamability and interfacial activity of SLNs and promoted the packing of particles at the bubble surface. However, high protein concentration caused foam destruction due to the competitive adsorption effect. ß-sheet increased in protein after adsorption and changed the polymorphism and thermodynamic properties of SLN. The foam collapsing behaviors varied in the presence of protein. The results gave insights into fabricating ultrastable aqueous foams by using high-melting DAG particles. The obtained foams demonstrated good temperature sensitivity and plasticity, which showed promising application prospects in the food and cosmetic fields.

Grafting Carbon Fibers with Graphene via a One-Pot Aryl Diazonium Reaction to Refine the Interface Performance of T1100-Grade CF/BMI Composites.

In this study, a one-pot aryl diazonium reaction was used as a simple and mild method to graft graphene onto the smooth and inert surface of T1100-grade carbon fiber (CF) through covalent bonding without any damage on CF, to refine the interface performance of CF/bismaleimide (BMI) composites. XPS, SEM, AFM, and dynamic contact angle testing (DCAT) were used to characterize chemical activity, morphologies, and wettability on untreated and grafted CF surfaces. Meanwhile, the impact of the graft method on the tensile strength of CF was also examined using the monofilament tensile test. IFSS between CF grafted with graphene and BMI resin achieved 104.2 MPa after modification, increasing from 85.5 MPa by 21.8%, while the tensile strength did not decrease compared to the pristine CF. The mechanism of this interface enhancement might be better chemical bonding and mechanical interlock between CF grafted with graphene and BMI resin, which is generated from the high surface chemical activity and rough structure of graphene. This study may propose a simple and mild method to functionalize the CF surface and enhance the interface performance of composites without compromising the tensile properties of T1100-grade CF.

Review of the Interfacial Structure and Properties of Surfactants in Petroleum Production and Geological Storage Systems from a Molecular Scale Perspective.

Surfactants play a crucial role in tertiary oil recovery by reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible phases, altering surface wettability, and improving foam film stability. Oil reservoirs have high temperatures and high pressures, making it difficult and hazardous to conduct lab experiments. In this context, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is a valuable tool for complementing experiments. It can effectively study the microscopic behaviors (such as diffusion, adsorption, and aggregation) of the surfactant molecules in the pore fluids and predict the thermodynamics and kinetics of these systems with a high degree of accuracy. MD simulation also overcomes the limitations of traditional experiments, which often lack the necessary temporal-spatial resolution. Comparing simulated results with experimental data can provide a comprehensive explanation from a microscopic standpoint. This article reviews the state-of-the-art MD simulations of surfactant adsorption and resulting interfacial properties at gas/oil-water interfaces. Initially, the article discusses interfacial properties and methods for evaluating surfactant-formed monolayers, considering variations in interfacial concentration, molecular structure of the surfactants, and synergistic effect of surfactant mixtures. Then, it covers methods for characterizing microstructure at various interfaces and the evolution process of the monolayers' packing state as a function of interfacial concentration and the surfactants' molecular structure. Next, it examines the interactions between surfactants and the aqueous phase, focusing on headgroup solvation and counterion condensation. Finally, it analyzes the influence of hydrophobic phase molecular composition on interactions between surfactants and the hydrophobic phase. This review deepened our understanding of the micro-level mechanisms of oil displacement by surfactants and is beneficial for screening and designing surfactants for oil field applications.

Exposure to O3 and NO2 on the interfacial chemistry of the pulmonary surfactant and the mechanism of lung oxidative damage.

Exposure to ozone (O3) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are related to pulmonary dysfunctions and various lung diseases, but the underlying biochemical mechanisms remain uncertain. Herein, the effect of inhalable oxidizing gas pollutants on the pulmonary surfactant (PS, extracted from porcine lungs), a mixture of active lipids and proteins that plays an important role in maintaining normal respiratory mechanics, is investigated in terms of the interfacial chemistry using in-vitro experiments; and the oxidative stress induced by oxidizing gases in the simulated lung fluid (SLF) supplemented with the PS is explored. The results showed that O3 and NO2 individually increased the surface tension of the PS and reduced its foaming ability; this was accompanied by the surface pressure-area isotherms of the PS monolayers shifting toward lower molecular areas, with O3 exhibiting more severe effects than NO2. Moreover, both O3 and NO2 produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in lipid peroxidation and protein damage to the PS. The formation of superoxide radicals (O2•-) was correlated with the decomposition of O3 and the reactions of O3 and NO2 with antioxidants in the SLF. These radicals, in the presence of antioxidants, led to the formation of hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals (•OH). Additionally, the direct oxidation of unsaturated lipids by O3 and NO2 further caused an increase in the ROS content. This change in the ROS chemistry and increased •OH production tentatively explain how inhalable oxidizing gases lead to oxidative stress and adverse health effects. In summary, our results indicated that inhaled O3 and NO2 exposure can significantly alter the interfacial properties of the PS, oxidize its active ingredients, and induce ROS formation in the SLF. The results of this study provide a basis for the elucidation of the potential hazards of inhaled oxidizing gas pollutants in the human respiratory system.

The Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Si3N4f/BN/SiBCN Microcomposites Fabricated by the PIP Process.

SiBCN ceramics based on SiC, BN and Si3N4 structures have good comprehensive properties such as high-temperature resistance, oxidation resistance, creep resistance and long life, which makes it one of the very promising ceramic material systems in military and aerospace fields, etc. In this study, SiBCN ceramics, as well as Si3N4f/BN/SiBCN microcomposites, were prepared by a polymer infiltration pyrolysis method using PBSZ as the polymer precursor. The PBSZ was completely ceramized by pyrolysis at 900 °C. The weight loss and elemental bonding forms of the products after the pyrolysis of the precursors hardly changed from 600 °C to 900 °C. After pyrolysis at 600 °C for 4 h and using the BN coating obtained from twice deposition as the interfacial phase, a more desirable weak interface of fiber/matrix with a binding strength of 21.96 ± 2.01 MPa can be obtained. Si3N4f/BN/SiBCN ceramic matrix microcomposites prepared under the same pyrolysis conditions have a relatively good tensile strength of 111.10 MPa while retaining a weak interface between the fibers and the matrix. The results of the study provide more theoretical and methodological support for the application of new composite structural ceramic material systems.

Effect of heat treatment on the structural and emulsifying properties of copra meal protein: Improving interfacial properties to enhance performance of its Pickering emulsion.

This study investigated the impact of different temperatures and durations on the structural and emulsifying properties of copra meal protein. Additionally, the stability of copra meal protein Pickering emulsions was assessed through rheological and interfacial characteristics. Findings revealed a positive correlation between emulsification properties and heating temperature and duration. Thermal aggregates, facilitated by hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and disulfide bonds, significantly enhanced surface hydrophobicity. Heat-treated copra meal protein-based Pickering emulsions demonstrate enhanced adsorption at the oil-water interface and resistance to diffusion. The three-phase contact angle increases from 57.7° to 79.8° following heating at 95 °C for 30 min. The addition of NaCl and heating treatment did not affect emulsion particle size or interface adsorption ability. But it improved the rheological properties to varying degrees. These results offer valuable insights for optimizing the physicochemical and functional attributes of copra meal protein in the food industry.

Encapsulation of antioxidants with colloidal lipid particles for enhancing the photooxidation stability of phytosterol in Pickering emulsions.

In order to prevent the photooxidation of phytosterols, a new type of Pickering emulsion was developed by regulating the oriented distribution of antioxidants in colloidal lipid particles (CLPs) at the oil-water interface. High-melting-point and low-melting-point lipids were tested to modulate their protective effect against phytosterols photooxidation. Results showed that CLPs could stabilize Pickering emulsion and encapsulate antioxidants, providing a dual functional delivery system for phytosterols protection. The Pickering emulsion formed had a particle size of around 350-820 nm, and the crystallization and melting temperatures of tripalmitin particles were approximately 32 °C and 63.8 °C, respectively. The addition of tributyrin or tricaprylin reduced the crystallization and melting temperatures of Pal CLPs and improved the photooxidation emulsion stability. The prepared Pickering emulsion remained stable for a maximum of 12 days under accelerated light-induced oxidation. Among all formulations, the emulsion primarily composed of tripalmitin CLPs, with added tributyrin and resveratrol, exhibited the highest photooxidation stability.

Microcapsule Triggering Mechanics in Cementitious Materials: A Modelling and Machine Learning Approach.

Self-healing cementitious materials containing microcapsules filled with healing agents can autonomously seal cracks and restore structural integrity. However, optimising the microcapsule mechanical properties to survive concrete mixing whilst still rupturing at the cracked interface to release the healing agent remains challenging. This study develops an integrated numerical modelling and machine learning approach for tailoring acrylate-based microcapsules for triggering within cementitious matrices. Microfluidics is first utilised to produce microcapsules with systematically varied shell thickness, strength, and cement compatibility. The capsules are characterised and simulated using a continuum damage mechanics model that is able to simulate cracking. A parametric study investigates the key microcapsule and interfacial properties governing shell rupture versus matrix failure. The simulation results are used to train an artificial neural network to rapidly predict the triggering behaviour based on capsule properties. The machine learning model produces design curves relating the microcapsule strength, toughness, and interfacial bond to its propensity for fracture. By combining advanced simulations and data science, the framework connects tailored microcapsule properties to their intended performance in complex cementitious environments for more robust self-healing concrete systems.

Enzymatically produced acylglycerol and glycerin monostearate additives improved the characteristics of gelatin-stabilized omega-3 emulsions and microcapsules.

The impacts of enzymatically produced acylglycerol and glycerin monostearate on the characteristics of gelatin-stabilized omega-3 emulsions and microcapsules were investigated. Tuna oil was enzymatically produced and the resulting acylglycerol was mixed with tuna oil at 12.5% (w/w) to prepare a novel oil phase. This oil phase was stabilized by gelatin to prepare oil-in-water emulsions and subsequent microcapsules via complex coacervation. The tuna oil with glycerin monostearate (GMS) at 1 and 2% (w/w) were used as controls. Results showed that both acylglycerol and GMS significantly reduced the emulsion droplet size and zeta potential, while increasing the viscoelasticity and stability. The diacylglycerol/monoacylglycerol were involved in the oil/water interfacial layer formation by lowering interfacial tension and increasing droplet surface hydrophobicity. Overall, the changed emulsion properties promoted the complex coacervation and contributed to the formation of microcapsules with improved oxidative stability. Therefore, enzymatically produced acylglycerol can develop high-quality stable omega-3 microencapsulated novel food ingredients.

Molecular dynamics simulations of the interfacial behaviors and photo-oxidation of phytosterol under different emulsion oil content.

Phytosterol, recognized for its health benefits, is predominantly extracted from plants and exhibits significantly reduced stability under varying light conditions. Their photooxidation is significantly influenced by emulsion interfaces. This study examined the mechanism of interface structure on phytosterol photooxidation with unparalleled molecular precision, utilizing molecular dynamics simulations and experimental procedures. Hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl group at the C3 position of phytosterols and water molecules, coupled with van der Waals forces between the hydrophobic regions and the oil phase, induced phytosterol molecules to disperse toward the interface. The elevated polarity of the oil phase, specifically in tributyrin, facilitated the permeation of water molecules into the oil phase. This was achieved by diminishing the emulsion's interfacial tension, thereby fostering the development of more interface or micelles, and accelerating the photooxidation process of phytosterols. These simulations unraveled that the preponderance of phytosterol distribution is localized and oxidized at the oil-water interface.

Characterization of emulgels formulated with phycocyanin and diutan gum as a novel approach for biocompatible delivery systems.

Phycocyanin (PC), a protein derived from algae, is non-toxic and biocompatible. Due to its environmental and sustainable properties, it has been studied as an alternative stabilizer for food emulsions. In this sense, the main objective of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness of PC and its use in combination with diutan gum (DG), a biological macromolecule, to prepare emulgels formulated with avocado oil. Z-potential measurements show that the optimum pH for working with PC is 2.5. Furthermore, the system exhibited a structured interface at this pH. The surface tension did not decrease further above 1.5 wt% PC. Interestingly, emulsions formulated with >1.5 wt% PC showed recoalescence immediately after preparation. Although 1.5 wt% had the smallest droplet size, this emulsion underwent creaming due to the low viscosity of the system. DG was used in combination with PC to increase viscosity and reduce creaming. As little as 0.1 wt% DG was sufficient to form an emulgel when incorporated into the previous emulsion, which exhibited pseudoplastic behaviour and viscoelastic properties with very low creaming rates. However, the use of PC in combination with DG resulted in a non-aggregated and stable emulgel with 1.5 wt% PC and 0.1 wt% DG.

Modification mechanism of soybean protein isolate-soluble soy polysaccharide complex by EGCG through covalent and non-covalent interaction: Structural, interfacial, and functional properties.

Soybean protein isolate was modified with polysaccharides and polyphenols to prepare a natural emulsifier with antioxidant capacity. Physicochemical, structural, interfacial, and functional properties of SPI-SSPS complex were investigated after covalent and non-covalent interacted with EGCG. SPI-SSPS-EGCG ternary complex with low EGCG concentrations (0.0625 and 0.125 mg/mL) showed a significant increase in absolute potential value and a decrease in turbidity. EGCG destroyed the original rigid structure of SPI-SSPS complex, and the covalent complexes had an ordered structure, while the non-covalent interaction resulted in disordered. The ternary complex with high EGCG concentrations (0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL) exhibited stronger EGCG binding capacity and lower surface hydrophobicity, which in turn affected its interfacial properties. The EAI and ESI of SPI-SSPS-EGCG covalent complex increased significantly, while the non-covalent complex had a significant change in EAI but no significant change in ESI with increasing EGCG concentration. The ternary complex showed significantly enhanced antioxidant capacity. The SPI-SSPS-EGCG ternary complex, with excellent antioxidant capacity and emulsifying property, making it suitable for emulsion delivery systems.

Incorporation of Graphene Nanoplatelets into Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites in the Presence of Highly Branched Waterborne Polyurethanes.

Enhancing interfacial interactions in fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPCs) is crucial for improving their mechanical properties. This can be achieved through the incorporation of nanomaterials or chemically functional agents into FRPCs. This study reports the tailoring of the fiber-matrix interface in FRPCs using non-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) in combination with a waterborne, highly branched, multi-functional polyurethane dispersion (HBPUD). A unique ultrasonic spray deposition technique was utilized to deposit aqueous mixtures of GNP/HBPUDs onto the surfaces of carbon fiber fabrics, which were used to prepare epoxy-prepreg sheets and corresponding FRPC laminates. The influence of the polyurethane (PU) and GNP content and their ratio at the fiber-matrix interface on the tensile properties of resulting high-performance composites was systematically investigated using stress-strain analysis of the produced FRPC plates and SEM analysis of their fractured surfaces. A synergistic stiffening and toughening effect was observed when as low as 20 to 30 mg of GNPs was deposited per square meter of each side of the carbon fiber fabrics in the presence of the multi-functional PU layer. This resulted in a significant improvement in the tensile strength from 908 to 1022 MPa, while maintaining or slightly improving the initial Young's modulus from approximately 63 to 66 MPa.