Graphene nanoplatelets inclusion effects on mechanical properties of the hybrid Kevlar/Basalt fiber reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract This study experimentally examined the effects of hybridizing Basalt and Kevlar fibers with the inclusion of Graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) on the tensile, and flexural performance of composite materials. Various hybrid structures were fabricated, incorporating Basalt and Kevlar fiber composites both with and without GnPs, as well as hybrid composites featuring different proportions of GnPs in conjunction with Basalt and Kevlar fiber reinforcements. The findings of this study indicate that the mechanical properties of epoxy resin were significantly enhanced through the synergistic effects of hybridization with basalt and Kevlar fibers, as well as the incorporation of graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs). The significant enhancement in mechanical properties was attributed to the strong interfacial interactions between the epoxy matrix and GnPs nanoparticles, which facilitate improved stress transfer from the fibers and nanoparticles to the matrix. This enhanced stress transfer capability accounts for the superior resistance to fiber pullout observed in composites reinforced with GnPs compared to those without such nanoparticles.