Impact response of vinylester resin matrix reinforced with basalt fibers

As a preliminary step towards the development of a new composite material which can well respond to impacts, this project presents the results of an experimental investigation oriented to describe the behavior of vinylester/basalt composites during an impact event. The impact resistance of these laminates was investigated through impact tests at different energy levels and indentation, delaminated area and residual strength were evaluated respectively with surface roughness tester, ultrasonic or shearography tests and compression after impact test. The data were compared with similar ones obtained by other composites. The results obtained are then discussed in terms of dent depth, delaminated area and residual strength.