Enhanced wear resistance in particulate filled polymeric materials

This chapter elucidates the tribology of nano, micro, and hybrid filler-reinforced polymer composites which is prevalent in the interface of two surfaces which are in relative motion such as piston cylinder assembly, bearings, seals, gears, etc. Polymer matrix composites are promising tribo-materials owing to their ease of fabrication, self-lubrication, low cost, resistance to wear and corrosion, and lightweight characteristics. The tribological effect of various nano and micro fillers of different type, geometry and the synergism of nano and micro fillers on augmenting wear resistance and friction, load capacity of mechanical parts, and mechanisms to enhance stability and lubrication are also detailed. Further, the experimental test conditions such as speed, temperature, time, nano particle size and content, dispersion method, surface modification of fillers, lubrication mechanism of fillers such as generation of protective film layer, polishing, and ball bearing effect are also discussed.