Enhanced Mechanical and Thermal Performance of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polyester Composites: Experimental Evaluation and Simulation
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Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical and thermal properties of basalt fiber-reinforced polyester composites. The composites were fabricated using the hand lay-up method, with fiber volume fractions varying from 6.667% to 33.35% for mechanical characterization and 4.6% to 23% for thermal analysis. The mechanical performance was evaluated in terms of tensile strength and stiffness, while thermal conductivity was measured to assess heat transfer characteristics. To validate experimental findings, numerical simulations were conducted using Digimat software, providing deeper insights into the material behavior. Results indicate that an increase in fiber content significantly enhances both mechanical and thermal properties, making these composites promising candidates for structural applications in industries such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. The findings contribute to the advancement of sustainable and high- performance composite materials, offering a viable alternative to conventional fiber-reinforced polymers.