Effects of cubic boron nitride (c-BN) nanoparticle addition on the wear properties of carbon FRP composites

Abstract

Abstract Boron nitride (BN) nanostructures are a relatively new type of filler and highly convenient for aerospace applications due to its high strength, excellent thermal resistance, and acting as radiation shielding. Cubic BN (c-BN) nanoparticle is a structural form in crystalline shape and offers outstanding characteristics because it can provide additional improvements through the thickness of laminated composites. This study investigates the effects of c-BN nanoparticle addition on the wear properties of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The polymer matrix was modified with c-BN nanoparticles at weight ratios of 1, 2, 3, and 4%, respectively, and then reinforced with carbon fibers. The Vickers microhardness measurements showed that dispersion of c-BN nanoparticles into the matrix dramatically enhanced the surface hardness of the composite structures. Additionally, tribological examination revealed that friction coefficient values of the composites were extraordinarily reduced due to the presence of c-BN nanoparticles. The improved wear resistance was also exhibited with wear track profiles. Scanned electron microscopy images have confirmed the experimental findings. The c-BN nanoparticles can be used as secondary reinforcement for CFRP composites, and these hybrid systems could be strong material candidates for several industries like aviation, aerospace, and electronics due to their excellent wear properties.