Basalt fiber is a high-performance inorganic fiber derived directly from molten volcanic basalt rock through a single-step melting process. Unlike glass or carbon fibers, which require multiple raw materials and complex chemical synthesis, basalt fiber's primary ingredient is naturally occurring basalt. The rock is crushed, washed, and fed into a furnace where it is melted at approximately 1,400–1,600°C. The molten basalt is then extruded through platinum-rhodium bushings to create continuous filaments of remarkable strength and durability.
This simple, environmentally friendly production yields a material with exceptional properties: superior tensile strength, excellent resistance to extreme temperatures (both high and low), outstanding chemical stability, superb electrical insulation, and optimal adhesion to matrices like concrete, polymers, and resins. At Kaxite Sealing, we harness these innate qualities to engineer advanced sealing and reinforcement solutions for the most demanding industrial and infrastructure challenges.
Choosing Kaxite Sealing's basalt fiber products means investing in longevity, safety, and performance. Our proprietary manufacturing techniques enhance the natural benefits of basalt fiber, providing distinct advantages over traditional materials.
Transparency in product capabilities is fundamental. Below are the detailed specifications for Kaxite Sealing's standard continuous basalt fiber roving and chopped strand products.
| Parameter | Standard Value | Testing Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Filament Diameter | 9 – 13 μm | ASTM D578 |
| Linear Density (Tex) | 600 – 4800 | ISO 1889 |
| Tensile Strength | 3000 – 4840 MPa | ASTM D2343 |
| Elastic Modulus | 85 – 110 GPa | ASTM D2343 |
| Elongation at Break | 3.1 – 3.5% | ASTM D2343 |
| Density | 2.65 – 2.80 g/cm³ | ASTM D792 |
| Softening Point | 960°C | ASTM C338 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -260°C to +700°C | - |
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Length | 3mm, 6mm, 12mm, 24mm (Custom lengths available) | For concrete/polymer reinforcement |
| Filament Diameter | 13 – 20 μm | Optimized for dispersion |
| Moisture Content | < 0.1% | Ensures matrix compatibility |
| Compatible Binders | Epoxy, Polyester, Cement, Gypsum | Surface sizing tailored per application |
| Packaging | 20kg / 25kg bags | Vacuum-sealed for freshness |
Kaxite Sealing's basalt fiber products are engineered for versatility across multiple high-stakes industries. Their unique property profile solves complex material challenges.
Q: How does basalt fiber compare to fiberglass?
A: Basalt fiber outperforms traditional E-glass in several key areas. It offers approximately 15-20% higher tensile strength, better modulus of elasticity, superior resistance to alkaline environments (crucial for concrete), and a significantly wider operating temperature range. It is also more environmentally friendly as it is made from a single natural material without added fluxes or additives.
Q: Is basalt fiber resistant to corrosion?
A: Yes, it exhibits excellent corrosion resistance. Basalt fiber is highly inert and demonstrates remarkable stability in acidic, alkaline, and saline environments. This makes Kaxite Sealing's products ideal for chemical industry applications, wastewater treatment facilities, and marine structures where steel reinforcement would corrode.
Q: Can basalt fiber be used for fire protection?
A: Absolutely. Basalt fiber is inherently non-combustible and does not produce toxic smoke when exposed to fire. With a melting point above 1,050°C, it is classified as a Class A1 fire-resistant material. It is extensively used in fire curtains, protective barriers, fireproof composite panels, and insulation for structural elements.
Q: What are the environmental benefits of choosing basalt fiber?
A: The production of basalt fiber has a lower environmental impact than glass or carbon fibers. It requires less energy as it melts at a lower temperature than glass-making silica. The process generates no toxic waste or by-products. The raw material (basalt rock) is abundant and non-toxic. Furthermore, products reinforced with Kaxite Sealing basalt fiber often have longer service lives, reducing replacement frequency and resource consumption.
Q: How does Kaxite Sealing ensure the quality of its basalt fiber?
A: Kaxite Sealing implements rigorous quality control at every stage, from raw material selection to final packaging. We source high-purity basalt rock from specific quarries. Our melting and fiberizing processes are monitored by advanced automated systems to ensure consistent filament diameter and properties. Every batch undergoes mechanical, chemical, and thermal testing against international standards (ASTM, ISO) to guarantee the performance parameters we publish.
Q: Is basalt fiber compatible with all types of resins and matrices?
A: Basalt fiber has good natural compatibility with most common matrices like epoxy, polyester, vinyl ester, and cement. However, for optimal performance—maximum adhesion and load transfer—the fiber surface requires a specific sizing or coupling agent. Kaxite Sealing offers fibers with a range of proprietary sizings tailored for different applications (e.g., one for epoxy composites, another for concrete reinforcement). Consulting our technical team is essential to select the correct product for your specific matrix.
Q: What forms of basalt fiber does Kaxite Sealing supply?
A: We provide a comprehensive portfolio to meet diverse manufacturing needs. Our main product forms include: Continuous Roving (for filament winding, pultrusion, weaving), Chopped Strands (for injection molding, concrete reinforcement), Woven Fabrics (plain, twill, satin weaves for composites), Needled Mats (for thermoforming and laminate cores), and Basalt Fiber Meshes/Grids (for construction and road paving). Custom configurations are available upon request.
