Durability of dry basalt yarns in different alkaline environments

Abstract

In this research, dry basalt yarns are prioritized due to sustainability reasons, despite the protective properties of the polymeric layer in impregnated yarns which would enhance durability. To better understand the durability of non-impregnated basalt fibers in different environments, dry basalt yarns were immersed and kept for 90 days in various pH levels solutions, namely citric acid, tap water, kaolinite filtrated suspension and ordinary cement filtrated suspension at 60°C to accelerate their degradation process. By monitoring the pH, mass changes, and the uniaxial tensile strength of the immersed basalt yarns, the damage progression and their durability were investigated both from a chemical and mechanical point of view. The basalt fibers showed better durability in the less harsh clay-based environment. This strengthens the potential applicability of dry basalt textiles in clay-based matrices.