The effect of filler content on the properties of zeolite particle reinforced unsaturated polyester composites

Abstract

The effect of filler content on the properties of zeolite particle-filled unsaturated polyester composites was carried out. The composites were prepared using the pressure method on the compression molding instrument. The content of zeolite particles in composites was varied from 10% - 40% by weight. Properties of composites analyzed were flexural strength, impact strength, water absorption and thermal resistance. From the obtained results, the presence of zeolite particles has reduced the flexural strength of composite has decreased the value from 78 to 45 MPa. For impact strength, an increase in properties occurs with the addition of a filler of 20% by weight which is 6682 J/m2. The result of water absorption shows that the more filler content in the composite, the higher the water absorption capacity. The ability of composites to absorb water stopped on day eight (192 hours). The existence of pore-shaped channels in the zeolite structure is believed to be the cause of this. While the thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) results show that with the presence of zeolite particles in the composite, the thermal resistance increases compared to unsaturated polyester.