Page 80 - Template Tesis UTM v2.0

cracks within the layers) was observed in addition to interlaminar fracture (horizontal

cracks between layers) displayed by all tested specimens [92].

Sarasini et al. [15] investigated the E-glass/basalt reinforced hybrid laminates

with different stacking sequences at three different low impact energies of 5, 12.5 and
25 J. Results showed that basalt and hybrid laminates with intercalated configuration

(E-glass fibres were alternatively stacked with basalt fabrics as outer layers) exhibited

higher impact energy absorption capacity than sandwich-like sequence (seven glass
fibre reinforced layers as a core with three basalt fibre layers as a skin). Apart from

that, E-glass/basalt with intercalation sequence also recorded higher impact energy
absorption capacity in comparison with E-glass composite. A Similar study was

carried on basalt/aramid reinforced epoxy and results indicated that hybrid laminates
with intercalated configuration (alternating sequence of basalt and aramid fabrics)

have better impact energy absorption capability and enhanced damage tolerance [90].

Lopresto et al. [86] discovered the possibility in replacing glass fibre with

basalt fibre due to the potential low cost of basalt reinforcement as well as its good

mechanical properties, especially for applications at high temperature. The low
velocity impact was performed on E-glass and basalt reinforced epoxy up to complete

penetration (100 J) of the coupons using hemispherical nose impactor with diameter

19.8 mm. Results showed that the E-glass composite recorded a higher maximum force
value than basalt composite. In terms of energy absorption capacity, basalt composite

recorded about 11 % higher energy absorption than E-glass composite. In terms of
failure mechanism, larger delaminated area was observed on the E-glass specimen in

comparison with basalt specimen as shown in Figure 2.23.

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