Effect of Silicon Carbide and Pine Apple Leaf Fibre on Wear Rate of Graphite Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

Abstract

Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs) are composed of a variety of continuous or short fibres with organic based polymer matrices. In PMCs, the reinforcement gives stiffness and high strength. The role of matrix material is to tie the fibres together and to transfer load between them. In this research epoxy (LY 556), with hardener (HY 0951) are reinforced with the Pine Apple Leaf Fibre (PALF), graphite powder and Silicon Carbide (SiC) using traditional hand lay-up technique. The attempt is made to evaluate the influence of SiC and PALF on the tribological behaviour. Results show that SiC particulate hybrid composites show higher wear resistance compared to all tested composites. PALF and graphite reinforcement provides a cushioning effect and solid lubrication to the composites that lead to higher wear resistance.