Selected Construction Properties of Hybrid Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Carbon Fabric and Alumina

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of the introduction of powder modifier into composite reinforced with carbon fabric on selected mechanical properties. The tests were performed on 16 groups of hybrid epoxy composites, including one reference group and 15 groups containing alumina with the grain size of F220, F240, F280, F320 and F360, added in the weight percent of 5%, 10% and 15%. This composite was made of certified components designed for application in the aviation industry. Test results indicated that the increase of alumina content by weight caused thea decrease of strength of polymer composites in most tests. The value of the force transferred by the composite in the tensile test increased disproportionately to the cross section. It resulted in decreased strength. The addition of alumina impeded the super-saturation of the carbon fabric, which caused discontinuities in the matrix material.

Automated summary

The study found that the addition of alumina resulted in a decrease in the strength of polymer composites, while also impeding the oversaturation of carbon fabric, leading to discontinuities in the matrix material.