Interaction researchepoxy binder with basalt by the X method

Basalt, known for its unique properties, is used for the production of yarns, fabrics, nets, and heat-insulating wool. Currently, a research is promoted on applicability of basalt as a dispersed filler for thermo- and rectoplastic materials without processing it into fibers. Therefore, investigation into interaction of epoxy binder with the crushed basalt is promising, which determines the aim of the given study. The objects of the research are the epoxy resin ED-20, polyethylene polyamine PEPA, and dispersed basalt filler. Spectrophotometer "Specord" with the IR-spectrum covering the area of 400 ÷ 4000 cm-1 was used to study the interaction of basalt filler with the epoxy oligomer and hardener. To take the photos of IR spectra of powders, the latter are pressed together with an excess of potassium bromide into tablets several millimeters thick. Special vacuum molds and pressure of several tons per 1 cm2 are used to produce the tablets. The ICS data confirm the interaction of ED-20 not only with PEPA, but also with the dispersed basalt. Amino groups, epoxy rings, CH groups of epoxy and aromatic rings of the binder and hardener undergo a reaction. As the content of the basalt filler in the epoxy increases, the same absorption maxima and bands are observed as in the IR spectra of the composite material with a low content of dispersed basalt. The difference is that the higher the basalt content in the epoxy matrix, the higher the relative intensity of such maxima, which indicates a stronger interaction of the components.