Effect of Nanoparticles on Tribological Behavior of Functionality Graded FRP Nanocomposite

https://doi.org/10.46610/JoAME.2023.v08i03.002

Abstract

The addition of ceramic nanoparticles to polymers is known to enhance their mechanical and tribological properties. In this study, different amounts of nano-sized silicon carbide (SiC) particles with an average diameter of 70 nm were introduced into an epoxy resin to improve the tribological properties of the resulting composites. The effects of particle size, amount, and dispersion technique on the composite's performance were investigated. Pin-on-disc tests were conducted to monitor the wear behaviour of the fabricated nanocomposites. The experimental results showed that the addition of SiC nanoparticles improved the wear resistance of the composites and the optimum filler loading was found to be 3 vol. %. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the worn surfaces were also analyzed, and it was concluded that the addition of 3 vol. % SiC nanoparticles gave the best results. This study highlights the potential of using ceramic nanoparticles as nanofillers to improve the tribological properties of polymers.