Processing, characterization and sliding wear behavior of functionalized carbon nanotube reinforced epoxy matrix composite

Abstract

The wear of parts because of friction is becoming the major problem for replacement of any product. The present research work is aimed to minimize the specific wear rate by fabricating the composite material by using multi walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) as reinforcement. In this study the MWCNT is functionalized and then it is mixed with epoxy matrix composite by employing the chemical functionalization. Various characterization tests are done in order to predict various properties, nature and structural morphologies of MWCNT by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, Thermo Graviemetric Analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, and Scanning Electron Microscope. Composite is then prepared from pristine as well as functionalized MWCNT by varying its concentration. Sliding wear tests are done at different concentration and wear surface morphology is inspected by optical microscope. Results of functionalized MWCNT composite were compared with neat epoxy and pristine MWCNT composite and outstanding improvements was noticed for specific wear rate at a concentration of 0.5 wt. %.