Decomposition of matrix in basalt fiber‐reinforced composites using laser processing parameters for clear unveiling of fibers without damage.

Highlights This work investigates the effects of laser processing parameters on basalt fiber‐reinforced composites for the optimization of surface processing without fiber damage. Various conditions of laser power, speed, and stand‐off distance were applied using a CO₂ laser. Consequently, a well‐processed morphology with full matrix removal and clear fiber exposure was achieved under optimized conditions of 32 W power, 200 mm/s speed, and 5 mm SOD. Those parameters resulted in a surface roughness Sa of 6.11 μm. Using the optimum parameters obtained from the experiments, the surface energy density was computed as 0.89 J/mm2, while ensuring adequate material removal without damage to the fiber. Lower power input of 20 W resulted in incomplete removal of the matrix; on the other extreme, unreasonably high powers resulted in fiber degradation. The experiments determined that optimum laser parameters indeed play a critical role in the processing of basalt fiber composites surfaces. Ideal laser settings: 32 W, 200 mm/s, 5 mm SOD. Full‐matrix removal and fiber exposition realized without any damage. The achieved surface roughness Sa is 6.11 μm for optimized laser parameters. Excessive laser power leads to a fiber damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]