Novel approach for optimizing mechanical and damping performance of MABS composites reinforced with basalt fibers: An experimental study

The purpose of this research is to explore how basalt fibers, when compounded in specific proportions, impact the mechanical and damping attributes of methyl methacrylate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (MABS). The fabrication process involved compounding basalt fibers in a twin-screw extruder at four distinct weight percentages: 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%, with an MABS matrix. This study uniquely employs a comprehensive suite of characterization techniques—including dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile tests, and density measurements—to evaluate the composite's performance. The research significantly reveals that the integration of basalt fibers enhances the damping characteristics of MABS composites, as confirmed by DMA. Additionally, micro-CT scans provide unprecedented insights into the uniform distribution of basalt fibers within the MABS matrix, thereby elucidating the underlying mechanisms for the observed improvements. TGA data further bolsters the composite's thermal resilience, revealing its aptitude for high-temperature applications. Our findings establish a novel correlation between the basalt fiber weight percentage and the damping properties, revealing a non-monotonic relationship. This study thus not only augments the understanding of MABS-based composites but also opens new avenues for the exploitation of basalt fibers in advanced composite materials, particularly in terms of their damping capabilities.