# Strain-Rate Effects on the Mechanical Behavior of Basalt-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: Experimental Investigation and Numerical Validation

## TL;DR

This paper studies how the mechanical behavior of basalt-fiber-reinforced polymer composites changes with strain rate and direction, providing data useful for engineering applications.

## Contribution

The study establishes strain rate relationships for BFRP composites and validates them through numerical simulations.

## Key findings

- BFRP composites show significant strain rate dependency and anisotropic behavior.
- Strain rate relationships accurately predict mechanical properties across tested ranges.
- Finite element simulations validated the developed strain rate relationships.

## Abstract

Basalt-fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites, utilizing a natural high-performance inorganic fiber, exhibit excellent weathering resistance, including tolerance to high and low temperatures, salt fog, and acid/alkali corrosion. They also possess superior mechanical properties such as high strength and modulus, making them widely applicable in aerospace and shipbuilding. This study experimentally investigated the mechanical properties of BFRP plates under various strain rates (10−4 s−1 to 103 s−1) and directions using an electronic universal testing machine and a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB).The results demonstrate significant strain rate dependency and pronounced anisotropy. Based on experimental data, relationships linking the strength of BFRP composites in different directions to strain rate were established. These relationships effectively predict mechanical properties within the tested strain rate range, providing reliable data for numerical simulations and valuable support for structural design and engineering applications. The developed strain rate relationships were successfully validated through finite element simulations of low-velocity impact.