Abstract
This novel research work reports the possibility of using a high-performance polymer fiber as a potential reinforcement in a suitable metal matrix for the development of composites. The manufacturing route is an additive process using High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel Thermal-Spray technique. Continuous strands of Poly-benzobisoxazole and para-aramid were used as high-performance polymer reinforcement in a uni-directional configuration, and Zinc metal was used as matrix material. The developed Thermal-Spray composites were subjected to mechanical tensile test and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Optical Microscopy. The results of the tensile tests revealed a substantial increase in the tensile properties and the investigation of Scanning Electron Microscopy and optical images showed a good deposition of matrix material on the reinforcing polymer fibers. The testing and characterization results were conclusive of the fact that Poly-benzobisoxazole and para-aramid can be used as an effective reinforcement even at low volume content for high strength structural applications.
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