THE FLEXURAL PROPERTIES OF IRAQI-BAUXITE FILLED EPOXY COMPOSITES

Abstract

This study is focus on the mechanical properties of Iraqi bauxite filled epoxy composites. In this study, bauxite content was varied systematically to evaluate their effect on the properties of the composites. The composites were prepared using gravity molding technique. From the flexural test results, it was observed that the flexural modulus increases with increasing bauxite content from 1.25 to 40 wt% with 40 wt% of bauxite content recorded the highest value of flexural modulus (4.93 GPa). In contrast, the flexural strength of the composites decreases with rising bauxite content till 20% and then increases with bauxite content increase from 20 to 40%. It has also been demonstrated that the pattern of flexural stress-strain curve is also affected with addition of bauxite particles. The flexural strain at break and the toughness decreases with bauxite content increase.These types of composite materials are suitable for use in braking systems with moderate loads, but vehicle manufacturers are tending to design increasing number of vehicles with more braking power, also used in textile for heavy duty stores.