Study on the effects of nanoparticulates of SiC, Al₂O₃, and ZnO on the mechanical and tribological performance of epoxy-based nanocomposites

ABSTRACT

In this research work, mechanical and tribological characteristics of ortho cresol novalac epoxy (OCNE)-based nanocomposites filled with nanoparticulates of SiC, Al₂O_3, and ZnO have been investigated. Also, in these investigations, the influence of wear parameters such as applied normal load, sliding velocity, filler contents, and sliding distance have been explored. The experimental plan for four factors at three levels using face centered composite design (CCD) has been employed by the response surface methodology (RSM) technique. The friction and wear tests were carried out using a pin on disc wear test apparatus under dry sliding conditions. The hardness and flexural strength of nano ortho cresol novalac epoxy composites filled with nano (SiC, Al₂O_3, and ZnO) particulates increases with an increase in the filler contents. Whereas, the tensile strength of these nanocomposites increases with an increase in the filler contents from 1 to 2 wt%, and with a further increase in filler contents the tensile strength decreases. The results of the study also showed that (2 wt%) filler contents bring superior mechanical and tribological properties. The lowest coefficient of friction and specific wear rate were found with nano Al₂O₃-filled composites. Also, the wear mechanisms of these nanocomposites were studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an EDS analyzer.

KEYWORDS:

• Mechanical and tribological properties
• nanofillers
• ortho cresol novalac epoxy
• response surface methodology