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Effect of the Microstructures on Vulcanized Rubber Frictions
Masanaru Nosaka1, Kazuma Tsujioka1, Yasutaka Matsuo2
1Graduate school of Photonics Science, Chitose Institute of Science and Technology (CIST), 758-65, Bibi, Chitose 066-8655, Japan.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|May 18, 2021
Summary
This study shows that simple surface microstructures on vulcanized rubber can significantly reduce friction. These anisotropic microstructures decrease the friction coefficient by altering contact area and hysteresis, applicable across various fields.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Tribology
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Vulcanized rubber's high friction, while beneficial for some applications, causes wear and part failure.
- Controlling friction is crucial for extending the lifespan and improving the performance of rubber components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how vulcanized rubber microstructures influence friction force.
- To explore the use of anisotropic microstructures for friction reduction.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of anisotropic line and space microstructures in photoresist, transferred to PDMS, PSt, and Ni.
- Surface modification of Ni molds with TEOS for hot press fabrication of vulcanized rubber microstructures.
- Utilizing FEM simulations to analyze structural deformations under elongation.
Main Results:
- Vulcanized rubber microstructures with varied parameters were successfully fabricated.
- Surface microstructures reduced the friction coefficient of vulcanized rubber.
- Friction force was direction-dependent due to microstructure anisotropy, explained by changes in contact area and hysteresis.
Conclusions:
- Simple, anisotropic surface microstructures effectively reduce vulcanized rubber friction.
- Microstructure design offers a tunable approach to control rubber friction properties.
- This method has broad applicability for reducing wear and improving durability in various industries.
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