Abstract
Polymer nanocomposites with enhanced performances are becoming a trend in the current research field, overcoming the limitations of bulk polymer and meeting the demands of market and society in tribological applications. Polytetrafluoroethylene, poly(ether ether ketone) and ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene are the most popular polymers in recent research on tribology. Current work comprehensively reviews recent advancements of polymer nanocomposites in tribology. The influence of different types of nanofiller, such as carbon-based nanofiller, silicon-based nanofiller, metal oxide nanofiller and hybrid nanofiller, on the tribological performance of thermoplastic and thermoset nanocomposites is discussed. Since the tribological properties of polymer nanocomposites are not intrinsic but are dependent on sliding conditions, direct comparison between different types of nanofiller or the same nanofiller of different morphologies and structures is not feasible. Friction and wear rate are normalized to indicate relative improvement by different fillers. Emphasis is given to the effect of nanofiller content and surface modification of nanofillers on friction, wear resistance, wear mechanism and transfer film formation of its nanocomposites. Limitations from the previous works are addressed and future research on tribology of polymer nanocomposites is proposed.
Highlights
The science of tribology studies design, friction, wear and lubrication of interacting surfaces in relative motion [1]
coefficient of friction (COF) of modified Halloysite nanotube (HNT)/PTFE nanocomposites varied considerably with sliding time and were significantly greater than of pristine HNT/PTFE. These results indicate that the addition of modified HNT led to structure modification in the PTFE matrix and increased the surface roughness, which was not observed in pristine HNT/PTFE
The incorporation of cupric oxide (CuO) [33] and Cu coated with silicon (Cu/Si) nanoparticles [117] reduced COF and wear scar width of the nanocomposites when compared to pristine Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and polyamide 6 (PA6), respectively
Summary
The science of tribology studies design, friction, wear and lubrication of interacting surfaces in relative motion [1]. Polymeric materials are popular in addressing tribology-related challenges in industries, their low mechanical properties, thermal conductivity and stability, and high thermal expansion avert their applications under high pressure and velocity (PV) operating conditions [2]. Due to the viscoelastic properties of polymers, their tribological behavior is mainly dependent on the nature of the material and its counter-face, sliding surface roughness, contact pressure, velocity and temperature. That is usually developed during polymer-metal or polymer-polymer sliding, is the key factor in polymer tribology, as it will eventually change the contact surface. This article summarizes the challenges encountered and suggestions in advancements of polymer nanocomposites for tribological applications
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
