Impact of nano-hybridization on flexural and impact behavior of basalt/glass fiber-epoxy composites for automotive structures

Abstract

This study’s primary objective is to experimentally investigate the flexural and impact performance of composites composed of hybrid basalt/E-glass fiber-reinforced epoxy infused with multiwalled carbon nano-tubes (MWCNTs) and nano-silica (SiO2) in compliance with ASTM D790 and ASTM D6110 specifications. Recently, manufacturers considered using basalt fiber-based composites for various structural applications due to their excellent mechanical properties, high stiffness, and high strength-to-weight ratio. Each composite laminate was made by hand layup techniques and filled with equal proportions of SiO2 and MWCNT nanoparticles in different weight percentages, such as 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%. The composites were made by using a symmetric stacking sequence of B/GG/BB/GG/BD/GG/B fibers. MWCNTs and SiO2 were evenly dispersed throughout the epoxy matrix with the assistance of an ultrasonicator and magnetic stirrer. The composite containing 2% fillers has an increased flexural strength by 20% from 307 to 378 MPa and flexural modulus by 30% from 11.181 to 15.901 Gpa, as well as an increased Charpy impact resistance by 45% from 236 to 418 J/m, compared with the composite without fillers. The interfacial interactions between the epoxy matrix, particles, and fibers significantly influenced the composite laminates’ flexural and impact characteristics. The accumulation of particles in the epoxy caused by the 3% fillers reduces the flexural strength and flexural modulus and impacts the performance due to the inadequate interfacial contact between the fibers and the epoxy matrix.