Effect of fillers on mechanical properties and toughness of novel fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) for structural reinforcement (FasRaP)

• Main Author: Chew, Aaron Zuo Han
• Other Authors: Ng Kee Woei
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2020
• Subjects: Engineering::Materials::Composite materials
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/138491
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) has gained popularity over the years in many applications, including the use as structural reinforcements due to its toughness and high strength. Hand lay-up method is most commonly used for the application of FRP for structural reinforcements. However, this method is time consuming and labor intensive. A novel FRP has been developed by using ultraviolet light curing mechanism, which reduces installation time for structural reinforcement, while at the same time exhibit better mechanical property than traditional fibre reinforcement wraps. In this project, the effect of graphite and silicon carbide fillers on the mechanical properties was explored. The optimal loading of fillers in the matrix was first identified and characterized before adding it into the novel FRP. 0.1 wt% of graphite and 3.0 wt% of silicon carbide particles were identified as the best loading suitable for infiltration into the FRP due to the increase in mechanical properties in filler-matrix system. However, after characterization of the FRP, it was found that the tensile and flexural strength remain relatively unchanged while the modulus increase. On the other hand, tensile and flexural toughness was decreased for both fillers added. These studies have lead to a better understanding of the effects on fillers on the novel FRP system and recommendations on future work and possible explorations are provided to conduct a more comprehensive study on this system.