Basalt Fibers: Alternative to Glass?

Continuous fibers extruded from basalt are being investigated as a replacement for other types of fibers fibers. This article describes the manufacturing process for basalt fibers and discusses some of their potential uses and advantages. The continuous process used for producing basalt fibers is similar in many respects to that used to make glass fibers. Proponents claim that basalt fibers offer performance similar to S-2 glass fibers at a price point between S-2 and E-glass, and may offer manufacturers a less-expensive alternative to carbon fiber. High-temperature performance and superior strength properties may make basal fibers preferable to other fibers for many applications. Natural burn resistance makes basalt fiber a potential replacement for asbestos in friction applications such as composite brake pads. Companies are also experimenting with using basalt fibers in automotive headliners and laminated or thermoformed automotive components.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/10834117
• Authors:
  • Ross, Anne
• Publication Date: 2006-8

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos;
• Pagination: pp 44-48
• Serial:
  • Composites Technology
  • Volume: 12
  • Issue Number: 4
  • Publisher: Gardner Publications Incorporated
  • ISSN: 1083-4117

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Basalt; Brake pads; Extrusion; Fiber reinforced materials; Fibers; Fire resistant materials; Laminates; Manufacturing; New products; Product development; Strength of materials; Vehicle components
• Subject Areas: Highways; Vehicles and Equipment; I91: Vehicle Design and Safety;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01038435
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 29 2006 11:06AM