The influence of moisture ingression on mechanical and vibrational properties of basalt, glass, and hybrid fiber-epoxy composites
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Basalt fiber, a natural and eco-friendly reinforcement, has demonstrated superior properties compared with conventional synthetic fibers. This study investigates the effect of ageing on the mechanical and vibrational properties of Basalt/Epoxy, Glass/Epoxy, and Basalt-Glass/Epoxy hybrid composites. Laminates were fabricated using vacuum bagging, ensuring uniform fiber-matrix volume fractions, and then exposed to ageing in seawater, tap water, and distilled water for a duration of 80 days. The moisture absorption pattern followed Fickian diffusion, with seawater exhibiting the highest diffusion coefficients owing to matrix breakdown and osmotic influences. Tensile tests demonstrated a decrease in failure stress and modulus for all materials after ageing, with Glass/Epoxy composites experiencing the most notable degradation despite absorbing less moisture, indicating a weakening of the fiber-matrix interfacial bond. The hybrid laminates exhibited moderate tensile and vibrational characteristics and maintained mechanical performance better in harsh environments. Free vibration tests showed that the natural frequency diminished as mass increased due to moisture absorption, while damping factors rose after ageing. Overall, the combination of basalt and glass fibers enhanced environmental resilience, indicating their suitability for structural applications under challenging conditions.
Source: PLoS ONE
Institution: Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Language: English
Subfield: Polymers and Plastics
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,382
OpenAlex ID: W7223100451