Mechanical and Wear Characterization of Fly Ash, Coconut Shell Ash and Rice Husk Ash Dispersed Epoxy Glass Composites

Abstract

Over the last few decade the use of fibre reinforced polymer composite materials has increased considerably. Fiber reinforced composite processes some unique properties due to that it is used in various technological areas such as space, aircraft, marine and automotive. In recent years there is lot of research going on, to enhance the different properties of composite materials by using different filler materials. In present study different filler materials like coconut shell ash, rice husk ash and coal fly ash were dispersed with epoxy LY 556 resin to prepare glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites. Tensile, flexural and impact characterization were carried on prepared composites. Specific strength for different laminates were found. Wear test was carried on laminates based on lay out orthogonal array L16. Betterment in mechanical strengths with addition of fillers to the composites was observed. Coconut shell ash gave the better tensile, flexural and impact strength as compared others. Whereas composite with no filler is have low strength as compared with composite laminates with fillers. Wear test results observed reduction in specific wear rate with addition of fillers to the laminates. Coconut shell ash gave better wear resistance property.

Keywords: GFRP, FLY ASH, RICE HUSK ASH, COCONUT SHELL ASH, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, WEAR