Development and characterization of polymer-based composites filled with micro-sized waste marble dust

This investigation explores the possibility of developing a new class of particulate-filled polyester composites using waste marble dust as filler. The dusts collected from local construction sites are sieved to three different sizes (58, 110, and 155 μm). Polyester composites are fabricated with filler in different weight proportions (0, 8, 16, 24, 32, and 40 wt%). A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study is done to get an insight into the chemistry of composite formation. Scanning electron microscopy reveals the surface features of the filler as well as the composites. X-Ray diffraction tests are carried out on the raw filler and on the composites to ascertain the presence of hard phases. The experimental findings suggest that, while the tensile and flexural strengths of the composites marginally drop with the incorporation of marble dust, there is reasonable improvement in compressive strength, impact strength, and Shore hardness. The density and voids are also affected by the size and content of filler particles in the composite. Armed with lightweight, improved hardness, and impact strength, these polyester–marble composites are expected to find potential use in wear-related engineering applications.