Development of Eco-Friendly Composites: Lamination Configuration and Addition of Waste Tire Rubber Particles on the Mechanical Performance of Polyester-Fiberglass Composite Plates

Abstract

The ever-growing problem of waste tire disposal necessitates the exploration of sustainable solutions. This research investigates the development of eco-friendly composites by incorporating recycled tire rubber particles into polyester-fiberglass laminates. The research focuses on the influence of two key factors: lamination configuration and the addition of waste tire rubber particles, on the mechanical performance of the composite plates, by correlating the lamination configuration, rubber particle content, microstructure, and resulting mechanical properties, the research aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of how these factors influence the performance of the eco-friendly composites. This knowledge will be valuable for optimizing the design and manufacturing processes of these composites for various applications where sustainability and tailored mechanical properties are critical. The results revealed that the inclusion of reinforcements significantly improves the material's performance. Fiberglass enhances its strength, while rubber particles, especially in specific configurations, improve its elasticity and strain resistance – this is confirmed by toughness and fracture strain tests. Notably, impact resistance also increases, making it suitable for high-impact applications