Effect of low nanosized alumina loading fraction on the physicomechanical and tribological behavior of epoxy. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fouly, Ahmed; Alkalla, Mohamed G.
• Is Part Of: Tribology international. Volume 152(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Epoxy nanocomposites -- Alumina nanoparticles -- Friction finite element model -- Low-loading nanocomposites; Tribology -- Periodicals; 621.89
• DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2020.106550
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-679X

Abstract

Abstract: The primary objective of the present study is to investigate how alumina nanoparticles with a low loading fraction by weight affect the physicomechanical and tribological characteristics of epoxy nanocomposites. Alumina nanoparticles with loading fractions of zero, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 wt% are homogeneously dispersed in the epoxy matrix. Density, hardness, Young's modulus, compressive yield strength, toughness, elasticity, friction coefficient, and specific wear rate of the epoxy composites were estimated experimentally. A finite element model for the friction process is constructed to study the contact stress distribution during composite samples sliding. Results indicate an enhancement in the mechanical and tribological properties of the epoxy nanocomposite. Finally, scanning electron microscopy is used to inspect the worn surfaces of samples to elucidate the wear mechanism. Highlights: Epoxy nanocomposite reinforced with low-loading fraction of nano-alumina was developed. Physico-mechanical and Tribological Behavior of Epoxy nanocomposite were investigated experimentally. A finite element analysis for the friction process was presented to understand tribological results. Results show that a low loading fraction of nano-alumina has a significant impact on the different properties of epoxy composites.