Influence of SiC micro and nano particles on tribological, water absorption and mechanical properties of basalt bidirectional mat/vinyl ester composites

Abstract

In recent years, basalt fiber reinforced polymer composites have gained popularity as an alternative to synthetic glass fiber reinforced polymer composites. Unidirectional 0°/90° basalt fiber-reinforced SiC micro and nano filled composites were tested for tensile, flexural, impact and hardness characteristics to determine the optimal composition. Comparing the mechanical properties of the composites reinforced various combinations of SiC micro or nano filler particles 4 wt% nano SiC filler addition exhibits superior properties. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images also reveals the improved interfacial interaction between the fiber mat and matrix for filler concentration up to 4 wt% SiC nanoparticles. Moreover, the wear resistance of the composites with 4 wt% SiC micro particles was better with low weight loss in wear test. The water absorption ability of the composite was low for the composites reinforced with 2 wt% SiC nanoparticles. Most of the properties of the composition with optimum filler addition are good enough for structural applications.