Mechanical and Fracture Performance of Basalt Fiber Nanocomposites

Abstract

Basalt fiber–reinforced polymer composites have gained increasing attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional glass and carbon fiber composites due to their favorable mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and cost-effectiveness. However, like many fiber-reinforced polymers, basalt fiber composites often suffer from limited interlaminar strength and brittle matrix-dominated fracture behavior. The incorporation of nanoscale reinforcements into the polymer matrix has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance both mechanical performance and fracture resistance. This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the mechanical and fracture performance of basalt fiber nanocomposites, focusing on the influence of nanoparticle type, dispersion quality, and interfacial engineering. Experimental observations and multiscale modeling approaches are integrated to understand how nanoscale modifications influence stiffness, strength, damage tolerance, and fracture energy under various loading conditions.