Investigation of flexural, inter delamination and impact behaviour of fiber metal laminate composite

Abstract

This paper deals with the experimental analysis of composite laminate made up of Basalt fiber and Aluminium. Basalt is an igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. When combined with Aluminium which is a silvery-white, soft, non-magnetic and ductile metal in the boron group, its mechanical properties are enhanced, so that it can be used in different engineering applications. Basalt - Aluminium laminate is fabricated with the help of hand lay-up method. In order to enhance abrasive and durable properties, silicon carbide is added. The Basalt - Aluminium laminate is tested for the flexural and impact strength along with the delamination test to find out its inter-molecular structure. This material can be applied in places where mechanical forces occur more regularly or frequently like brake pads, clutch plates, conveyor belts, etc., In this paper Tit is proven that the addition of SiC increases the flexural strength of the material. Furthermore, it is found that the impact strength increases propositional to the weight percentage of Sic added. Inner layers of the composite and the results of the ultimate break load applied to each of the composite material with closer examination using handheld microscope is also conducted.