Effects of MWCNTs+SiO₂ Inclusions on the Quasi-Static Compression and Hardness Behavior of Basalt/E-Glass Fiber/Polymer Hybrid Nanocomposite

Manufacturers are now looking into the use of lightweight composite materials that are highly durable, as alternatives to costly traditional materials in various structural applications. The objective of this study is to examine the quasi-static compression and hardness characteristics of a hybrid nano composite. The composite consists of a polymer reinforced with basalt/E-glass fibers, along with different proportions of Multi-Walled Carbon Nano Tubes (MWCNTs) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) in equal weight ratios (0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%). A manual lap-up technique was employed to create the composites, which were then compressed. The nanoparticles were efficiently dispersed within the epoxy matrix using an ultrasonicator and magnetic stirrer, resulting in a uniform distribution. The specimens were subjected to compression and hardness testing following the guidance outlined in the ASTM standards. Upon analysis of the data, it was evident that the composite specimen containing BG3 (2%) exhibited a notable enhancement in both compressive strength and Vickers hardness. A significant enhancement of 31% in compressive strength and 16% in Vickers hardness was observed in comparison to the unfilled composite. The results indicated a range of compressive strength from 125MPa to 180MPa, with a variation in the Vickers hardness number from 17.25 to 18.50. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images demonstrate various failure modes associated with composites, such as matrix cracks, debonding, fiber breakage, and fiber pull-outs.