Micro-GB: truck body panel composite- basalt fibre reinforced composite filled with micro granite

Granite waste is becoming increasingly relevant as the global demand for granite increases. As demand rises, so does the amount of granite waste generated. The waste often contains large pieces of granite or small fragments, dust, and other debris. This waste can be challenging to manage and take up valuable landfill space. Additionally, granite waste can be hazardous if not handled and disposed of properly. This study aimed to develop a new composite using micro granite as filler and basalt fibre as the matrix. Composite fabrication process using hand layup and vacuum silicon mould. Mechanical testing that has been done were hardness, density, constituent volume fraction (burnt-off method) and tensile. A fibre fraction below 5% shows that the newly developed material is suitable because of less void in the newly developed composite. Analysis testing results show an increase in hardness, density, and tensile strength with the increase in weight percentage of micro granite. The maximum value of the weight percentage is in 3wt% in Hardness (BFRC-118.44HRR and GFRC-117.94HRR) and Tensile Strength (BFRC318.58MPa and GFRC-281.58MPa). More than 5wt% micro granite will decrease the value of hardness and tensile strength. Sample with 5wt% micro granite will agglomerate, referring to the SEM. Replacement of using glass to basalt will increase by 25% in tensile strength. BFRC tensile strength is better than GFRC, and BFRC is greener than GFRC. Using micro granite in this application will help decrease the waste in granite industries and contribute sustainable resources.