Tribological Properties of Composites Based on Single-Component Powdered Epoxy Matrix Filled with Graphite

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Tribology
• Polymer Composites

Background:

• Single-component epoxy powder matrices present a viable alternative to traditional liquid epoxy resins for composite fabrication.
• Graphite-reinforced composites are explored for their potential in tribological applications, aiming to improve material properties and reduce wear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the production process of graphite-reinforced epoxy composites using a single-component epoxy powder matrix.
• To evaluate the mechanical and tribological properties of these composites with varying graphite filler content and particle sizes.
• To investigate the mechanism of tribological wear in these novel composite materials.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of epoxy composites with graphite fillers (particle sizes <10 μm and <45 μm) at weight percentages of 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%.
• Mechanical testing to assess material strength and integrity.
• Tribological testing using the pin-on-block method to evaluate friction and wear characteristics.

Main Results:

• Graphite incorporation, irrespective of particle size, above 10% by weight led to a substantial decrease in the friction coefficient (40-50% reduction compared to unfilled epoxy).
• The study identified specific wear mechanisms associated with the graphite-filled epoxy composites.
• Optimal graphite content was found to significantly enhance self-lubricating properties.

Conclusions:

• Single-component epoxy powder composites with graphite are effective for creating low-friction, self-lubricating materials.
• Graphite reinforcement significantly improves tribological performance, making these composites suitable for cost-effective applications.
• The findings support the use of these composites as a sustainable alternative in various engineering fields.