Recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) reinforced with basalt fibres: Rheology, structure, and utility properties

Utilization of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) as a matrix for composite materials prepared by continuous compounding is challenging from the environmental as well as industrial point of view. In our work, cut basalt fibers and talc powder of various compositions were used and their reinforcing effect on recycled PET was tested by rheology (Advanced Rheometric Expansion System), differential scanning calorimetry, and tensile experiments. The quality of filler dispersion in recycled PET matrix was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and melt rheology. Processing and utility properties of composites were enhanced as compared with those of unfilled matrix. Higher melt elasticity, interfacial adhesion, and better mechanical performance of the composites were in a good agreement with the structure observed from SEM micrographs.