Affiliation:
1. The British University in Egypt
2. Suez University
Abstract
Abstract
In this article, mechanical and tribological properties of epoxy matrix composites filled with graphite particulates of 100µm at loadings between 0-1wt% are comprehensively discussed. The effects of the graphite filler on the wear surface of the specimens was investigated using an optical microscope. Results showed a large decrease in the tensile strength of the composite by more than 50% for 1wt% graphite loading. Flexural strength was seen to increase sharply with 0.1wt% graphite before reducing with higher graphite content. Impact and hardness values are both improved with higher graphite content. Friction coefficient was seen to reduce with the addition of graphite particles, this was attributed to the solid lubrication abilities of graphite. Wear rate was seen to sharply reduce with increase in graphite content as a result of the lubrication layer developed at the contact surface hence reducing the break-off of the specimen.
Publisher
Research Square Platform LLC