On the investigations of nano and micro-sized particles of Boric acid as a solid lubricant in PAEK composites

Abstract

The attempt to explore the tribo-potential of micro-particles and nano-particles of Boric acid, a well know solid lubricant with a layer lattice structure is first time reported in this work using high performance poly (aryl-ether-ketone) (PAEK) as a matrix, short glass fibers (GF) as a reinforcement and graphite as a primary solid lubricant. The tribo-performance evaluation in a pin on disc configuration under high pressure and velocity conditions confirmed very low μ and specific wear rates (around 0.04-0.08 and 2-8 × 10-16 m3 (Nm) respectively for these composites. Slight deterioration in performance due to particles was analyzed based on the degradation chemistry of boric acid at high temperature. The test results were discussed by considering the surface properties, i.e., material removal and film transfer formation. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and Raman spectroscopy on worn surfaces was performed to understand wear mechanisms.