Effect of Silicon Carbide Filler on Mechanical and Damping Behavior of Basalt/Stainless Steel Hybrid Laminated Composites

Abstract

This study consolidates three experimental investigations on hybrid laminated composites reinforced with basalt fibre, stainless steel (SS) wire mesh, and silicon carbide (SiC) filler using vacuum infusion moulding. Three laminates were fabricated with filler variations of 0%, 1.5%, and 3% by weight of matrix material, maintaining a stacking sequence of [0B/0W/45B/0W/0B/45W]s with a thickness of 4–5 mm. The first investigation focused on impact strength. Drop-weight impact testing revealed a steady enhancement with filler content: specimens with 0% SiC fractured extensively, while 1.5% and 3% specimens demonstrated improved crack resistance and higher energy absorption, confirming SiC’s role in enhancing toughness.The second investigation analysed tensile and compressive behaviour as per ASTM D3039 standards. Results indicated that tensile strength increased from 112 MPa (0% SiC) to 138 MPa (1.5% SiC) and 152 MPa (3% SiC). Similarly, compressive strength improved from 96 MPa (0%) to 118 MPa (1.5%) and 127 MPa (3%). This highlights that optimum filler addition significantly improves load-bearing capacity without increasing laminate density. The third investigation examined damping properties through vibration testing. Natural frequency and damping ratio were evaluated using FFT analysis. Composites with 3% SiC showed ~18% higher damping ratio compared to unfilled laminates, with minimal reduction in stiffness. Thus, filler incorporation enhanced vibration attenuation while maintaining structural integrity. Collectively, the results confirm that basalt/SS/SiC hybrid laminates offer superior mechanical and dynamic performance compared to unfilled composites. The integration of SiC at 1.5–3 wt% provides an optimal balance between strength, toughness, and damping, making these composites promising candidates for automotive, aerospace, and structural applications.