Effect of Silica-Based Wastes on Wear Rate and Hardness Properties of Epoxy Composites as a Construction Material

Abstract

In this study, polymer composites were manufactured with epoxy-based resin and wastes as a mineral additive. The wastes including a high content of silica (Silica fume, glass and fly ash) powder were used as fillers for an epoxy adhesive to improve its wear resistance properties. They were supplemented to mixes in various ratios via substituting the resin from 0 to 20% by weight. Tests of wear rate and hardness were conducted upon all-polymer composites at all fillers ratios. Results indicated that the epoxy hardness increased with increasing the filler addition. Consequently, the addition of wastes that include silica raised the wear resistance of polymer composites; nevertheless, it caused the composites harder materials. The wear rate decreased with increasing the silica fume, glass, and fly ash addition. In the case of fly ash addition, the minimum wear rate was at 15%, and after this percentage, the wear rate increased. However, in the case of glass addition, the minimum wear rate was at 10%, and after this percentage, the wear rate increased.