Tribological properties of epoxy nanocomposites: I. Enhancement of the wear resistance by nano-TiO2 particles

The tribological performances of epoxy-based composites, filled with short carbon fibre, graphite, PTFE and nano-TiO2 in different proportions and combinations, were investigated. The patterns of frictional coefficient, wear resistance and contact temperature were examined by a pin-on-disc apparatus in a dry sliding condition under different contact pressures and sliding velocities. The experimental results indicated that the addition of nano-TiO2 could apparently reduce the frictional coefficient, and consequently reduce the contact temperature of fibre-reinforced epoxy composites. As a result, the wear resistance of the composites was significantly enhanced, especially at extreme wear conditions, i.e. high contact pressures and sliding velocities. Compared to traditional fillers, epoxy nanocomposites attained generally improved both wear resistance and load-carrying capacity.