Experimental investigation on tribological behaviours of PA6, PA6-reinforced Al2 O 3 and PA6-reinforced graphite polymer composites

This article reports on the preparation, characterization and experimental investigation of polyamide 6 (PA6) reinforced with alumina oxide (Al2O3) and graphite composites. The test specimens were prepared in an injection-moulding machine by varying the weight proportions of Al2O3 and graphite particles blended with PA6. The tribological properties of the composites were observed by using pin-on-disc wear test rig under dry sliding conditions. The worn surfaces of the composites were examined using scanning electron microscope. The addition of Al2O3 and graphite significantly enhanced the tribological properties of PA6. The PA6 containing 30 wt% Al2O3 and 20 wt% graphite revealed the best tribological behaviours due to the stronger interfacial bonding characteristics with improved wear resistance. Further, the thermal stability of Al2O3 and graphite particles was studied through thermogravimetric analysis test. It was also found that further addition of Al2O3 and graphite in PA6 had no significant improvement in wear resistance, the co-efficient of friction and heat generation.