Effect of filler-fiber interactions on compressive strength of fly ash and short-fiber epoxy composites

Compressive properties of epoxy composites reinforced with fly ash and fibers, which have differing aspect ratios, are studied. Retention of strength and modulus are observed for a greater range of fiber volume fractions following fly ash introduction into the system. A slight decrease in density was also observed when fly ash content was higher, making these composites with materials of differing aspect ratio bearing reinforcement systems suitable in weight specific applications. The investigations showed that strength decrease is larger in fiber-bearing samples compared with only ash-bearing samples. This decrease was ascribed to the tendency of fibers to bunch. When the ash filler was introduced, this tendency of fibers to cluster appears to be reduced, resulting in increased strength and modulus. Further attempts are made to analyze these interactions of fibers and fillers through observations made on the surfaces of failed samples by scanning electron microscopy. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.