Use of 3D Optical Techniques in the Analysis of the Effect of Adding Rubber Recyclate to the Matrix on Selected Strength Parameters of Epoxy–Glass Composites

Abstract The article presents a method of modifying the strength properties of epoxy–glass composite by changing the percentage composition of the matrix by the addition of rubber recyclate. Taking into account environmental protection and economic conditions in the process of recycling and utilisation of waste, it is advisable to look for applications of non-degradable waste materials. Based on epoxy resin, a glass mat with a random direction of fibres and rubber recyclate, a test material with different percentage compositions was produced. Samples from the manufactured materials were subjected to a static tensile test on a ZwickRoell testing machine using the ARAMIS SRX measuring system. In addition, CT (computerized tomography) scans of the inside of the samples were made using a ZEISS METROTOM 6 Scout tomograph, and observations of the internal structures were made using a scanning electron microscope. The use of optical and microscopic techniques enabled the precise determination of strength parameters of the examined composites and the analysis of the behaviour of samples under load. The analysis of deformations over time in the examined samples showed a beneficial effect of the addition of rubber recyclate on the elastic properties of the examined composites.