High-temperature‐resistant vinyl ester composites enhanced by fumed silica and rockwool: thermal and mechanical insights
摘要
This study reviews the literature on vinyl ester matrix samples hardened with rockwool fibers and fumed silica, focusing on its flammability, thermal, and mechanical characteristics. The load bearing behavior was greatly improved using the insertion of rockwool fibers, which increased the structural strength and reduce the stress concentration. With a flexural strength of 156 MPa and a tensile strength of 146 MPa, sample VRS2 demonstrated the best mechanical performance among the different formulations. With a decomposition threshold of 381 °C, the composite delivered an outstanding thermogravimetric residue of 98%, slashed the flame spread rate to a mere 5.33 mm min−1, and achieved its best-in-class low heat conductivity of 0.28 W m−1 K−1. The enhanced thermal insulation and flame-retardant behavior were mainly caused by the higher fumed silica content. SEM investigation revealed even more details about the internal architecture of the composites. Sample VRS2 showed low signs of fiber pull-out and robust fiber-matrix adhesion in addition to excellent filler dispersion. While VRS2 exhibited excellent thermal and flammability properties, sample VRS3 showed indications of filler agglomeration, which could account for its marginally worse mechanical performance. In sum, the findings highlight the possibility of composites in situations requiring a harmony between thermal stability, flame resistance, and mechanical strength.