Basalt Fiber Composites in High-Performance Sports Equipment

Title

Basalt Fiber Composites in High-Performance Sports Equipment

Creator

Ajith, Athira J; Kumaran, Reshma; Nair, Yamuna

Description

This chapter explores the revolutionary role of basalt fiber composites in the development and production of high-performance sports equipment. Basalt fibers, produced from naturally occurring volcanic rocks, are a strong alternative to conventional reinforcement materials such as carbon and glass fibers. Their outstanding resistance to heat, moisture, and chemicals is complemented by their remarkable mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, impact resistance, and good vibration damping. These attributes make basalt fiber composites particularly suited for sports equipment subjected to dynamic loads and harsh environments, such as bicycles, tennis rackets, skis, snowboards, and surfboards. The chapter explores the most modern scientific and commercial advancements, demonstrating how basalt fiber composites can improve user comfort, reduce weight, and increase performance, durability, and safety. Illustrative examples compare basalt fiber composites with traditional materials to demonstrate their cost-effectiveness, reduced environmental impact, and successful applications. The manufacturing processes and potential challenges in adopting basalt fibers are discussed in detail. Finally, the chapter addresses emerging trends and prospects, positioning basalt fiber composites as a key material in the evolution of sustainable, high-performance sports equipment. This comprehensive overview provides valuable insights for researchers, manufacturers, and sports technology innovators. 2026 American Chemical Society

Source

ACS Symposium Series;Volume;1524;pp.423-457

Date

01-01-2026

Publisher

American Chemical Society

Coverage

Ajith A.J., Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, 560029, India; Kumaran R., Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, 560029, India; Nair Y., Department of Chemistry, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, 560029, India

Rights

Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library

Relation

ISSN: 976156; CODEN: ACSMC

Format

online

Language

English

Type

Book chapter

Identifier

https://doi.org/10.1021/bk-2026-1524.ch012

https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105037884663?origin=resultslist