Tribological Characterization of Hybrid Natural Fiber MWCNT Filled Polymer Composites

Abstract

AbstractNatural fibre reinforced composites packed with Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) are focused by the researchers due to their great tribo and mechanical properties. To ensure collective mechanical and wear qualities, fibre reinforced polymer composites must be hybridised; thus, this study examines the manufacturing and tribological performance of natural fiber-glass reinforced hybrid composites. Compression moulding was used to combine natural fibres like jute, flax, and banana with glass fibre. Particulate MWCNT were disseminated in epoxy resin through ultrasonic bath sonicator, which was then employed as the matrix face for composites reinforced with natural fibre. The sliding wear behaviour of composites reinforced with glass-natural fiber and filled with MWCNT is evaluated using a pin-on-disc wear testing setup. Using D-optimal design, second-order mathematical models were created to forecast particular rate of wear and friction co-efficient by considering wt% of MWCNT, sliding speed load. The surface morphology of worn-out surfaces was studied by SEM analysis.KeywordsNatural fibersMulti Wall Carbon Nano Tubes (MWCNT)Scanning electron Microscopy (SEM)Coefficient of frictionSpecific wear rate