Title: Characterisation of composites based on the system polyester–SiC for use in the polishing of ornamental rocks

Authors: Rafaela Barros Aigueira, Ronaldo Paranhos, Marcello Filgueira

Addresses: Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense – UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Pq., California 28013-600, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil. ' Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense – UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Pq., California 28013-600, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil. ' Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense – UENF, Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Pq., California 28013-600, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil

Abstract: This work studies the processing and characterisation of composites based on the system polyester–SiC (silicon carbide). The objective was to evaluate its technological application as abrasive crowns for the polishing of ornamental rocks, as an alternative to the traditional product based on the magnesia cement composite (SOREL)–SiC. Composites were produced with stoichiometry polyester – (5-10-20-30-40-50) % weight of SiC. The compounds were dry mixed and cured with a catalyst. The composites were submitted to compression and wearing tests, simulating the grinding and polishing operation of ornamental rocks. Comparing the results with those obtained for magnesia cement SOREL–SiC, this work concludes for the positive technical viability of this new composite polyester–SiC for use in the ornamental rock industry.

Keywords: abrasive composites; wear mechanism; polishing; polyester; silicon carbide; compression; grinding; ornamental rocks; abrasive tools; machining.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2006.010661

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2006 Vol.1 No.1, pp.62 - 75

Published online: 14 Aug 2006 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article