Optimization on wear performance of UHMWPE composites using response surface methodology

• Addition of talc particles into UHMWPE led to improvement in its wear properties.
• Empirical models on the wear of talc/UHMWPE were successfully developed.
• Optimization of the control variables to minimize the wear of UHMWPE were reported.

This study examined the wear characteristics of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) reinforced with talc particles. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to construct empirical models to show the connection between control factors (filler loading, load and sliding speed) and responses (wear rate and average coefficient of friction (COF)) of UHMWPE. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to project the optimization of the control variables in order to reduce the wear of UHMWPE. It was discovered that the rate of wear and the average COF of UHMWPE could be minimized by the inclusion of talc. The SEM analyses of the worn surfaces and transfer films indicated that the degree of wear on the surface of the UHMWPE was reduced.