Gamma irradiation effects on thermal, physical and tribological properties of PEEK under water lubricated conditions

Increase in glass transition temperature, melting temperature, hardness and density was observed after exposure to gamma irradiation. Highest glass transition temperature and melting temperature were observed at 0.5 MGy. Tribological properties were also altered after exposure to gamma radiation. Surface stresses generated due to crosslinking have resulted into highest coefficient of friction at 0.5 MGy dose. Reduced probability of fracture has resulted into lowest wear rate at same dose.