Thermal characterizations of basalt fiber-reinforced poly(aryl-ether-ketone) biomedical composites

This research article deals with the development and characterization of poly(aryl-ether-ketone) (PAEK) reinforced with 10 mass%, 20 mass% and 30 mass% of basalt fibers; the samples are titled as PABA 1, PABA 2 and PABA 3, respectively. The composite samples are prepared by hot compression molding process, and test specimens are prepared to ASTM standards. The prepared specimens are subjected to various thermal analyses. The results reveal that differential scanning calorimetry curve shows high crystallization temperature and melting enthalpy for 20 mass% basalt fiber in PAEK composite compared to other composites. The percentage of crystallinity is also higher, which indicates the purity of PABA 2. The same composite shows low mass loss with increase in degradation temperature in the thermogravimetric analysis, due to high heat resistance capacity and thermal barrier of PAEK/basalt fiber at this particular mass%. Dynamic mechanical analysis of 20 mass% basalt fiber PAEK composite shows better storage modulus and low loss modulus compared to 10 and 30 mass% basalt fiber/PAEK composites. The PABA 2 composite has minimum damping coefficient which indicates better stiffness and suitability for high-performance applications. The scanning electron microscope images show a good affinity between the matrix and the fiber in all the composites. Agglomeration of fibers in matrix is observed when loaded beyond 20 mass%; this may be due to lack of melt flow during hot compression.

Automated summary

The study demonstrates that adding 20% basalt fibers to PAEK composite can increase crystallization temperature and melting enthalpy, with higher crystallinity. This composite shows good heat resistance and thermal barrier properties, along with better dynamic mechanical performance and the lowest damping coefficient; excessive basalt fiber addition may lead to fiber agglomeration in the matrix.