Experimental Investigation on Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Polyester Resin Composites with Granite Fillers for Cable Tray Applications

Abstract

The current study is mainly focused on manufacturing hybrid composites and its characterization with the help of sisal fiber reinforced polyester resin and filler by using granite powder as a mineral filler with a specific target of application on cable tray. The sisal fibers were removed and alkali-treated in order to enhance their adhesion to the polyester matrix. At weight fractions (2 to 10 wt%) granite particles (two sizes: 90 and 150μm) were added to the mix. Composites were made through hand lay-up and compression molding. ASTM standards of mechanical testings showed high tensile, flexural, and compressive strength at 6 to 8 wt% granite 90 μm particle size gave highest tensile strength of 39.40 Mpa and flexural strength of 45.5 Mpa, which is appropriate to be used in structural load bearing. Higher strength was obtained at low filler content (2 wt%) and then it decreased because of particle agglomeration. Moderate filler loadings reduce water absorption and, consequently, increase moisture resistance, which is vital to the durability of cable trays. Tests of flammability revealed that the burning rate (as high as 76% at 10 wt% granite content) was significantly reduced, indicating higher fire resistance. The developed composites offer a lightweight, and fire-retardant alternative to conventional steel and aluminum trays, with the added advantage of leveraging natural fiber and mineral waste, aligning with sustainable materials engineering principles for cable support systems.