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3.4 Physical Test
The use of composite materials possible in devising the advanced material
development with the unique combinations of low density with high strength and
stiffness of the composite structures. The density of the material as well as the weight
fraction of fibre, significantly affected its mechanical properties. Determination of
composite density and weight fraction, of its constituents were explained in section
3.5.1 and 3.5.2, respectively.
3.4.1 Determination of Composite Density
The hybrid and pure composites densities were determined using Archimedes’
Principle with the assumption that 1.0 ml of water has a mass that approximately
equals to 1.0 g. Moreover, the density test was conducted using electronic densimeter
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(MD-300S) with the resolution 0.001 g/cm , as shown in Figure 3.4. Theoretically, the
object totally or partially immersed as the fluid is buoyed up by a force that is equal to
the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. Before using this equipment, it is
important to ensure that it is calibrated with calibration weight and all the parts are in
good conditions. Firstly, the specimen was put gently by tweezers on the sensor and
its weight was displayed. After the stable mark appeared, the “enter” button was
pushed to store and memorise the weight Then, the specimen was put at the centre of
the measuring tray and its weight in water was measured. It is also recommended to
shake the specimen slightly during the measuring stage to remove bubbles in water.
The “enter” button was pushed again to start the density calculation once the stable
mark appeared. Finally, the density value of the tested specimen was displayed after a
few seconds.
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