Effect of Particulate Filler on Mechanical Properties of Polyester based Composites

Abstract

Fiber reinforced plastics (FRPs) are acquiring its place in almost every application area where conventional materials are used. The present study describes the mechanical characterization (impact strength and flexural strength) of glass, carbon and glass-carbon hybrid fiber reinforced polyester hybrid composites with and without particulate filler. The composites were developed using conventional hand lay-up technique. Attempts have been made to explore the possible use of SiC as filler material in these composites. Effect of reinforcing different percentage of silicon carbide particles on mechanical properties of the developed hybrid composites has been studied. The results have been compared with and without filler materials. The study concludes that reinforcing filler material has strong effect on the mechanical performance of the developed composites.