Effects of powder concentration and type of resin on the performance of marble composite structures

In this work, we will expose the behaviour of a composite structure reinforced with marble powder. The attention was focused on the effects produced on the physical and mechanical properties due to different kinds of matrix (epoxy and polyester resins) and filler amounts (60%, 70%, 80%). Rheological, static flexural and Izod impact tests have been carried out. An experiment designed was defined for the mechanical tests, in order to quantify the effects of both the resin and the marble percentage on the material properties, as well as to identify a possible correlation between these factors. Moreover, water absorption and stain resistance have been evaluated to study the surface properties of the panels.