  Metalization of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) composites by the
surface modification method to enhance their electrical conductivity, thermal
conductivity, electromagnetic shielding, erosion, and radiation protection, has
a significant meaning in the aerospace field. In this study, Sn coating was
successfully fabricated on the CFRP composite substrate via low-pressure cold
spray under four gas temperatures (473K, 523K, 573K, and 623K). Their bonding
mechanism was explored via the surface observation after peel-off adhesion
strength, accompanying with surface temperature distribution investigation. The
results indicates that we cannot obtain coating at 623 K, the epoxy matrix of
the CFRP substrate was gradually eroded during deposition over 523 K.
Meanwhile, Sn particles melt under 623 K condition. Three kinds of interfaces:
Sn/epoxy, Sn/CF, and Sn/CF/epoxy are revealed as characteristics with respect
to different gas temperatures to explore the bonding mechanisms.
