Structure-property relationships of basalt fibers for high performance applications

Continuous basalt fibers present a unique combination of good mechanical and functional properties at an attractive cost level. These characteristics can be useful in high performance polymer matrix composites where cost orientation and function integration are becoming priority objectives. The present work examines a currently unresolved problem of basalt fibers regarding high performance applications: the variation of fiber structural and mechanical properties due to inhomogeneity of the natural raw material and the spinning process. Commercial basalt fibers from seven different manufacturers were investigated regarding their fiber chemistry, diameter distribution and occurrence of defects and crystallites. In a second step, structure-property relations on different scales were established with single fiber, impregnated roving and composite tensile test results.