The research on the mechanical and tribological properties of carbon fiber and carbon nanotube‐filled PEEK composite

Abstract The main objective of this article is to develop high wear resistance carbon fiber reinforced polyether ether ketone composite with addition of multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT). These compounds were well mixed in a Haake batch mixer, and compounded polymers were fabricated into sheets of known thickness by compression molding. Samples were tested for wear resistance with respect to different concentration of fillers. The wear resistance properties of these samples depend on filler aspect ratio. Wear resistance of composite with 20 wt% of CF increases when MWCNT was introduced. The worn surface features have been examined using scanning electron microscope. Photomicrographs of the worn surfaces revealed higher wear resistance with the addition of carbon nanotube. Also, better interfacial adhesion between carbon and vinyl ester in carbon‐reinforced vinyl ester composite was observed. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1315–1320, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers