Effect of UHMWPE powder size onto tribological and mechanical properties of composites loaded with functionalized chopped glass fibers

Abstract

Mechanical and tribological properties of UHMWPE composites with the different initial polymer powder size filled with chopped glass fibers (CGF) functionalized with silane-containing KH550 modifier aimed at increase adhesion were studied. It is shown that the various initial powder size at an equivalent molecular weight determines the pattern of glass fiber distribution in the matrix, and, as a consequence, the mechanical and tribotechnical properties of the composites. It was revealed that glass fiber reinforced composite based on fine UHMWPE powder grade GUR-2122 possesses higher tribomechanical properties in contrast with coarse grade GUR-4120 one. For practical antifriction applications the “UHMWPE 2122 + 10 wt. % CGF” composite is recommended loaded with the glass fibers functionalization with the KH550 silane-based industrially manufactured coupling agent.