An Experimental Study of The Properties of Mild Steel Micro Particle Reinforced Epoxy Matrix Composites

Particle-reinforced composites have demonstrated unique or excellent properties, which have made them suitable materials for application in many areas. In this study, 5-20 wt. % of mild steel microparticles were used in the reinforcement of epoxy resin matrix to produce polymer composites by stir casting technique. The microstructure of the composites was examined by employing a scanning electron microscope (SEM). In addition, their physical and mechanical properties were evaluated. The results revealed presence of pores in the samples and dispersion of ductile mild steel phase in the epoxy matrix phase. The density of the samples became higher as concentration of reinforcing mild steel particles increased, and reinforced sample E demonstrated the greatest density of 4.3 g/cm3. The much-reinforced samples D and E, which contained 15 and 20 wt. % of mild steel particles, respectively, demonstrated the least water absorption of 9.6 %. Reinforced sample E, which contained the highest amount of mild steel particles (20 wt. %) exhibited the highest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) value of 51.3 MPa, which is almost 85 % more than unreinforced-control sample A. Furthermore, it possessed a hardness of 23.4 HV, which is 45 % more than the control sample. Sample E also exhibited an impact energy of 5.44 J, indicating a 14.3 % improvement over the control sample.