Fabrication and testing of Fibre-reinforced Glass-epoxy composite with Seashell as a filler Material

In this study mechanical properties of a Polymer Matrix Composite i.e. mixing E-glass fibre (synthetic fibre) with seashell as filler material and using Lapox L-12 as the epoxy resin with K-6 hardener are tested. The constituents used in this composite are cheaper when compared to other composites and it showcases properties like higher strength, higher stiffness, chemically resistant, good insulation to electricity and light weight too. Three components are fabricated with ratio of sea shell powder varying from 5% to 15% in a total amount of 70:30 (Volume Fraction) fibre to resin ratio. Properties of different ratios of the composite material are determined using various tests like Tensile strength, Three-point bending & Natural frequency is found by FFT analyser. As this composite is light weight and durable, it is can be used in helmets, karts, and auto body parts. (paper)