WEAR AND HARDNESS INVESTIGATION OF CRYOGENIC TREATED EPOXY REINFORCED WITH HYBRID NANO COMPOSITE

Epoxy is often used as important material for cryogenic engineering, and can be designed to meet these high standards for cryogenic applications. CNT plays a vital role in reinforcement in polymers. In this experimental study explores the wear and hardness characteristics of epoxy reinforced with nanocomposite Multiwall Carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3)after the cryogenic treatment process. The specimens are prepared by varying the weight percentage of 1, 1.5 and 2% with the help sonication process. The wear properties were examined by pin on disc apparatus in dry sliding condition under different loads of 10, 20 and 30N respectively. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) is used to understand the surface morphology of cryogenically treated and untreated samples. Hardness properties were examined by Barcol testing machine as per ASTM Standard. The results revealed that 1.5 % addition of MWCNTs and Al2O3 gives better wear properties. Cryogenically treated sample of 1.5 % were shows better improvement of wear resistance and hardness up to 62 % and 45 % comparing untreated samples.