Enhanced flexural and tribological properties of basalt fiber-epoxy composite using nano-zirconia/graphene oxide hybrid system
Davood Toorchi, Esmaeil Tohidlou, Hamed Khosravi
Abstract
In this work, the synergistic effect of graphene oxide and nanozirconia on the flexural and tribological properties of basalt fiber/epoxy composites was investigated. At the first step, the nanofillers were surface-modified to improve their compatibility with the epoxy matrix. Then, several laminates were fabricated by varying the filler loading. The results revealed that the multiscale composite filled with 0.1 wt.% graphene oxide + 1 wt.% nanozirconia exhibited the maximum flexural strength and wear resistance. Compared to the neat basalt fiber/epoxy composite, the wear rate and friction coefficient of the 0.1 wt.% graphene oxide + 1 wt.% nanozirconia-filled specimen were decreased by 67 and 62%, respectively, whereas the flexural strength was enhanced by 50%. Scanning electron microscopy analysis clearly showed an enhanced fiber-matrix interfacial bonding for the multiscale composite containing hybrid fillers in the matrix.