Fabrication and characterization of light weight PVC foam based E-glass reinforced polyester sandwich composites

The chemical, mechanical, thermal, and microstructural properties of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) foam based E-glass reinforced polyester sandwich composites are evaluated as compared with single layer E-glass both side of PVC foam polyester composite (C1) and double layer E-galss both side of PVC foam polyester composite (C2). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to analyze the chemical composition of composites. The mechanical properties of fabricated composites were studied in terms of impact, flexural, and tensile strength. Thermogravimetric analysis and Dynamic mechanical analysis tests were done for examine thermal properties. Carbonyl group -C=O of the ester group, unsaturation sites of -(CH2)n-, CH, and CH3 stretching were identified in chemical analysis. The tensile strength and tensile modulus for C2 was found higher 37% and 152% more respectively as compared to C1 composite however C1 composite showed better flexural properties as compared to C2. C2 composite has a 31% higher impact strength than composite C1. Both C1 and C2 composite showed approximately equal thermal stability whereas C2 composite showed better damping properties. SEM micrograph of fractured surface divulges the fiber pullout, matrix cracking, and honeycomb structure. Fabricated light weight sandwich composites can be used for marine application.

Automated summary

Comparisons were made between Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) foam based E-glass reinforced polyester sandwich composites and single and double layer E-glass reinforced PVC foam polyester composites in terms of their chemical, mechanical, thermal, and microstructural properties. Chemical analysis identified carbonyl groups and unsaturation sites. The double layer composite showed higher tensile strength and modulus, while the single layer composite had better flexural properties. Both composites showed similar thermal stability, but the double layer composite demonstrated better damping properties. The lightweight sandwich composites fabricated can be used in marine applications.