Multi-response optimization of wear parameters of flax reinforced epoxy composites using Taguchi-GRA-PCA approach

Taguchi-grey relational analysis (GRA) coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) has been employed tooptimize the multi-response wear characteristics of the trime thoxymethylsilane treated flax fibre reinforced epoxy (F-E)composites. Dry sliding wear test has been performed as per ASTM G99 based on the experimental schedule of Taguchi’sorthogonal arrays (L27). Wear responses selected for the current investigation are specific wear rate (SWR), coefficient offriction (COF) and shore D hardness. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) of GRG clearly reveals that sliding velocity is mostsignificant factor affecting the wear performance of the F-E composites followed by fibre content and applied load. Fieldemissionscanning electron microscopy reveals that F-E composite endure thermal softening and cracks around its interfacialbonding region.