Influence of thermal treatment on tensile failure of basalt fibers

In this contribution selected ultimate tensile properties of basalt fibers are presented. Properties are investigated after tempering to the 50, 100, 200, 300 °C. Scanning electron microscopy identifies structural changes of fibers. The distribution of stress at break is described by the Weibull type model. It was postulated that fracture occurs due to nonhomogeneities in fiber volume (probably near the small crystallites of minerals). The analysis of fibrous fragment evolved during abrasion of basalt weave is presented. Despite of fact that basalt particle are too thick to be respirable the handling of basalt fibers must be carried out with care.