POTENTIAL OF GLASS, BASALT OR CARBON FIBRES FOR REINFORCEMENT OF PARTIALLY PYROLYSED COMPOSITES WITH IMPROVED TEMPERATURE AND FIRE RESISTANCE

Abstract

The study considers the mechanical properties and temperature resistance of partially pyrolysed composites reinforced with various fibres. The composites were prepared by pyrolysis at 650 °C, where only partial conversion of the polymer to the inorganic SiOC structure takes place in the matrix. Such a hybrid matrix bears resemblance to polymeric materials in a density and Young's modulus, but oxidation resistance and creep behaviour are closer to silicate glasses. Pyrolysis also ensures that the whole composite material is non-flammable with very low potential for releasing toxic gases during a fire. Three types of glass fibres (E-glass, R-glass, E-CR-glass fibres), two types of basalt fibres, and two types of high-strength (HS) carbon fibres were used as reinforcements. The mechanical properties - Young's and shear moduli, flexural strength, and fracture toughness - were measured at room temperature. Thermogravimetric measurements and creep tests of these composites allowed estimation of their temperature resistance and fire resistance. The results obtained suggest that the materials under investigation can be applied as panels or shells in the building industry and in transportation facilities.

Keywords

• composites
• pyrolysis
• basalt fibre
• glass fibre
• polysiloxane
• fire resistance