STUDY ON THE STRENGTH OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of two inorganic additives – zinc oxide (ZnO) and fly ash – on the mechanical properties of a polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix reinforced with 30% glass fber. Composite samples were fabricated using the injection molding method, with processing parameters optimized via the Taguchi approach. Mechanical performance was evaluated through tensile and flexural tests, Shore D hardness measurements, and morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that fly ash signifcantly enhances tensile and flexural strength, while ZnO increases hardness but negatively affects tensile strength and toughness. Statistical analysis using Minitab identifed the optimal molding parameters for each type of additive. This study provides an experimental basis for selecting suitable composite materials for engineering applications requiring high mechanical performance and environmental sustainability.