Mechanical, thermal and tribological characterization of a UHMWPE film reinforced with carbon nanotubes coated on steel

► SWCNTs are added to UHMWPE coatings to improve surface properties. ► Hardness and elastic modulus increased by 66% and 58%, respectively, with SWCNT addition. ► Scratch resistance to penetration and thermal conductivity also improved. ► Wear life (>10 million cycles) of the polymer film improved significantly.