Basaltvezels

Basaltvezels are mineral fibers made from naturally occurring volcanic basalt rock. These fibers are produced by melting basalt stone at extremely high temperatures, typically between 1400-1500°C, and then drawing the molten material into thin continuous filaments through platinum-rhodium plates or bushings.

The resulting fibers possess several advantageous properties including high tensile strength, excellent thermal stability, and good chemical resistance. Basalt fibers typically have a tensile strength ranging from 1000-3000 MPa and can withstand temperatures up to 700°C without significant degradation. They are also resistant to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents, making them suitable for harsh chemical environments.

Manufacturing begins with selecting high-quality basalt rock, which is crushed and melted in specialized furnaces. The molten basalt is then extruded through fine openings to form continuous filaments that are subsequently cooled and coated with sizing agents to improve handling and compatibility with various matrix materials. These fibers can be supplied in various forms including rovings, woven fabrics, or chopped strands.

Basaltvezels find applications across multiple industries due to their unique combination of mechanical and thermal properties. In construction, they are used for reinforcing concrete, creating lightweight composite panels, and manufacturing fire-resistant textiles. The automotive industry utilizes basalt fibers for producing heat shields, brake components, and structural parts. Aerospace applications include thermal protection systems and lightweight structural components.

Environmental benefits include their natural origin and recyclability, as basalt fibers can be remelted and reprocessed multiple times without significant property loss. Additionally, basalt rock is abundant worldwide, making the raw material readily available and cost-effective compared to some synthetic alternatives.

Compared to traditional materials like glass fibers, basalt fibers offer superior thermal performance and chemical resistance, though they may have slightly lower tensile strength than carbon fibers. Their production process is also considered more environmentally friendly due to lower energy requirements and minimal waste generation.