Influence of filler material on mechanical and vibration properties of basalt/epoxy composites

The present study investigates the influence of sawdust particles on tensile and vibration characteristics of basalt/epoxy composites for different weight contents of sawdust (2, 4 and 6 wt%). Laminates with six layers of basalt fabricated using vacuum bagging method and cured in ambient conditions. Variation of vibration characteristics determined by experimental modal analysis as per ASTM standards. Incorporation of filler material showed improvement in tensile properties and natural frequency by 30% and 22% respectively. However higher filler content in the laminates resulted in agglomeration and hence showed a significant reduction in tensile and vibration properties.