EFFECTS OF SILICON CARBIDE, MILLSCALE, AND MAGNESIA PARTICULATES ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF HYBRID UNSATURATED POLYESTER RESIN MATRIX COMPOSITES

Abstract

The efficacy of reinforcement of polyester resin matrix composites with hard ceramic particles for optimal performance was studied. 5-25 wt. % of silicon carbide, millscale, and magnesia particles were applied in reinforcing unsaturated polyester resin matrix by mould casting and the microstructural and mechanical characteristics of the composites were evaluated. There was uniform distribution of silicon carbide, millscale, and magnesia particles in the polymer composites matrix from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) result. The highest mechanical properties in terms of ultimate tensile strength (73.75 MPa), flexural strength (74.89 MPa), hardness (98.76 BHN), and impact energy (24.85 J) was exhibited by the hybrid composite at 15 wt. % reinforcement. This shows the efficacy of hybridisation and the high potential of the composite for wider applications.

Keywords

• Ceramic particles
• polyester resin
• hybridisation
• mechanical properties

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