Nanotechnology is now changing our world as every day people are working on creating and enhancing composites and resins in ways we had not thought of before, and are quite literally mind-blowing!
We have recently joined the fray and had bobbins of our fine 9 micron basalt rovings impregnated with graphite nanotubes and some secret sauce. The results were astonishing. Going from psi to megapascal test results. Which means the performance of the basalt fiber fabrics under impact and load testing was many times improved.
The ability of a small percentage of nanotubes to enhance the mechanical properties of the resins on the basalt volcanic rock natural fibers will provide superior results. Products will offer improved performance, higher safety. We will be able to modify and develop solutions according to a specific need. More tensile strength… more flexural modulus of elasticity… better impact resistance…
I am constantly being introduced to an exciting new world of opportunities where we know the basalt fibers and fabrics have unique properties that will make for a better, safer world. Not to mention the opportunities we have not yet thought of which will present themselves and make our lives even better. It is truly a Merry Christmas and we wish all a very Happy New Year.
What is Nanotechnology? Nanotechnology is science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers.
Hi Bruce. -Steve
I try to be as “green” as possible in everything we offer and work with. I know yes the nanotubes are of concern, however as these are impregnated in a resin they will be locked into that product for a very long time
and if it is understood maybe with labeling yes in the future any of these products should be recycled in such a way as to prevent any introductions into nature.
Personally I think as in asbestos (which I know very personally as my father died from it) if it is say locked up in the building shingles and not flying around loose then it really is not a hazardous material as it is treated.
Of course taking it down and apart should be done with great caution, but it is not like loose fibers or loose nanostructure are around being breathers or ingested.
Less material products and resins will be used by having these enhancements so the total impact on the earth will be less and longer lasting, so again, much less impact.
Remember, the “Greatest Generation”, its pretty much still making us sick today…
Of importance is Size – In addition to being able to cross cell membranes, reach the blood and various organs because of their very small size, nanoparticles of any material have a much greater surface to volume ratio (i.e. the surface area compared to the volume) than larger particles of that same material. Therefore, relatively more molecules of the chemical are present on the surface. This may be one of the reasons why nanoparticles are generally more toxic than larger particles of the same composition.
We in the indoor air world are worried about this…
whe are starting to use basalt fibers for bumbers and others car body parts
Great! Let me know if I can offer you a competitive bid -we have every weight and weave, sleeves, tapes etc.
Nick