Biocomposites Based on Biopolyamide with Reduced Water Absorption and Increased Fatigue Strength.

Abstract

In this study, composites were developed using a biopolyamide matrix modified with microsilica at varying concentrations (0.5-2% by weight). These composites underwent water absorption analysis, and diffusion velocity was assessed. Based on the findings, hybrid composites incorporating aramid, basalt, and carbon fibers, further modified with 2% microsilica by weight, were fabricated. Investigations into fundamental mechanical properties, microstructure analysis, and accelerated fatigue tests were conducted. The results demonstrate that microsilica positively influences the enhancement of fatigue strength and mechanical properties of the composites. Specifically, microsilica is found to increase the approximate fatigue strength by 15% for the base material modified with 2 wt.% microsilica, by approximately 5% for composites with aramid fiber, and by between 10 and 15% for composites with basalt and carbon fiber. Furthermore, the incorporation of microsilica reduces water absorption in polymer composites, potentially enhancing their durability in humid environments and increasing resistance to degradation.