Enhanced Tribological Performance of Graphene Oxide Reinforced Polyether Ether Ketone Nanocomposites

Abstract

Despite advancements in brake pad technology, issues with friction, wear rate, and stopping distance remain. Our study reported here examined the potential of a polymer-based nanocomposite, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) reinforced with graphene oxide (GO), to address these challenges. Varying concentrations of GO (1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.%) were incorporated into the PEEK matrix using a Sol–Gel process. The resulting nanocomposites were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to study surface characteristics, while X-ray Diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy examined their crystalline structures. A pin-on-disk machine was used to test the PEEK-GO nanocomposites for their friction coefficient and wear rate under varying loads (20 kg, 30 kg, 60 kg) and track diameters (60 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm). The results demonstrated that increasing filler content (GO concentration) reduced the wear rates at lower loads and track diameters. Lower friction coefficients were observed when the track diameter and load were increased alongside a reduction in GO concentration. The enhanced tribological performance of the GO-reinforced PEEK nanocomposites was attributed to efficient load transfer between GO and the PEEK matrix, along with GO's strengthening properties. This suggests PEEK-GO nanocomposites are a promising material for brake pad applications.