Mechanical Properties of Polyester Toughened with Nano-Silica

The fabrication of nanocomposites has played role to the development of the nanotechnology and the technology of advanced composite materials. Thermoset polymers are used in engineering applications widely. Their mechanical properties can be change with adding particles. The mechanism of toughening polymers has been suggested recently by reinforcing well dispersed particles to the plain polymer. Nano-silica particles were added to thermoset polymer of polyester to evaluate their influence on the mechanical properties of the toughened polymer using both experimental and numerical methods. The Representative Volume Element (RVE) approach, which employs finite element models, has been developed to achieve that aim numerically for various types of nano-particle reinforcement ratios. In each case, the stiffness has been calculated with using the equivalent homogeneous material concept. Experimentally, toughened thermoset polymers of polyester reinforced with nano-silica were prepared with different particle content ratio. Several tests were conducted on the nanocomposite, and it was observed increasing nano-silica ratio caused increase in Young’s modulus and decrease in ductility.

Effect of Corundum and Basalt Aggregates on the Ballistic Resistance of UHP-SFRC

Ultra-high-performance steel-fibre-reinforced concrete (UHP-SFRC) is a technologically advanced composite with a high ability to absorb and dissipate mechanical energy. This work investigates the possibility of increasing ballistic resistance by adding different percentages of corundum and basalt aggregate into this type of concrete. The most common type of ammunition, a 7.62 mm × 39 mm calibre with a full-metal jacket and a mild-steel core (FMJ-MSC), was used to test all samples. The size of the damage and the mode of failure were determined using a 3D scanner operating on the principle of photogrammetry. The experimental campaign showed that the addition of basalt and, especially, corundum aggregate has a positive effect on ballistic resistance. In particular, the increase in compressive strength and the slight decrease in depth of penetration (DOP) was observed in the case of the usage of the corundum aggregate.

Using Recycling Aluminum Cans as Composite Materials Aluminum Fiber

The sustained and developing construction industry needs a vast amount of material because it is becoming more extensive and sustainable day by day. Problems are also increasing in line with development. Many advanced composite materials and solutions are coming up in the current construction industry to solve these problems. However, these require more comfortable and extensive use. For that, we have to find out cheap and sustainable materials. This research paper aims to combine advanced materials and solutions to create more sustainable solutions and new material. That will enrich the industry and increase more use in the path of development of the construction industry. The factors that have to consider in doing so, these materials and solutions are how much economical, available in the market, able to solve chronic problems, easier to use, and sustainability. Recycled aluminum cans are going to be the material for this study.