Casting light on the tribological properties of paraffin-based HDPE enriched with graphene nano-additives: an experimental investigation

Abstract

The impressive mechanical properties and robust resistance to wear recorded by nano-polymeric composites have positioned them as a viable alternative in many applications. When it comes to frictional materials, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) emerges as one of the best candidate materials that can be used. However, it tribological properties need more enhancement to suite with wide variety of applications. The objective of the current study is to identify the optimal loading ratio using a comprise of paraffin oil and nano-graphene with varying loading compositions. Different experiments were carried out to assess the modulus of elasticity, hardness, and strength. Additionally, the friction coefficient and wear resistance of the proposed nanocomposite have been estimated. Surfaces topographies were analyzed to recognize the wear mechanism. The results pointed that samples containing 5% paraffin oil and 0.5 wt% have relatively better mechanical and tribological behavior compared to further compositions; where, a 38% decrease in wear and a 34% reduction in COF compared to other composite samples.