Effect of load on wear performance of coir particulate reinforced epoxy composite

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the wear performance of coir particulate reinforced epoxy composite. Modification of the particulates is done by alkali treatment. The variation in coir filler reinforcement is (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5,10 and 12.5%) for preparation of the composite. The wear tests are conducted at varying applied load (5-20 N), constant sliding velocity (1 m/s) and sliding distance (1000 m). The tribological tests are conducted under dry sliding contact condition by pin-on-disk multi-tribometer against a smooth stainless steel surface. The lower amount of filler reinforcement showed superior wear performance compared to a higher amount of filler reinforcement composite. The worn surfaces of the composite are investigated by field emission scanning electron microscope.