Fabrication and Characterization of Flambouyant Seed Particles-filled Unsaturated Polyester Composites

The research aimed at fabrication and characterization of Flambouyant Seed Particles (FSP) filled unsaturated polyester (UP) composites. The composites fabrication was achieved via hand layup with particle size of 100 µm at different filler loading of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 wt %. The composites were characterized by tensile properties and density. The result showed an increase in tensile strength, tensile modulus, and density as the filler loading increased to optimum values of 37.02 MPa, 0.47 GPa and 1.25 g/cm3  respectively, and afterwards decreased with further increased filler loading. The % elongation at break increased on the addition of the filler to the matrix and marginally decreased as the filler loading increased. The optimum and minimum values of % elongation at break were 8.15 % and 5.46 % at 2 and 22 wt % respectively. The scanning electron micrograph of the 10 wt % sample shows better interaction between the FSP and the matrix when compared to the 20 wt % sample, with clear failure that indicates weak interfacial adhesion. Thus, improved interfacial interaction enhances the material’s mechanical properties