Tribological studies of polymer based ceramic–metal composites processed at ambient temperature

Use of composite material is increasing due to economical processing of complicated shapes in large quantities. Addition of fiber/particulates improves the composite strength. In the current study, the tribological characterization of polymer based particulate composites which are processed at room temperature are investigated. The friction and wear behavior of polystyrene reinforced with steel powder (polymer–metal), alumina powder (polymer–ceramic) and a mix of steel and alumina powders (polymer–metal–ceramic) have been investigated under dry sliding conditions using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Tests were conducted at different normal loads and sliding velocities at room temperature. Coefficient of friction and wear loss during the wear tests are determined. Presence of metal and ceramic particulates affects the tribological behavior of the composite. The rise in temperature of the pin during sliding was measured. The rise in contact temperature is influenced by the composition which in turn influences the wear behaviour. The polymer–ceramic composite exhibits the lowest wear rate among the materials investigated.