Study of the mechanism of friction on functionally active tribological Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Aggregate composite surfaces

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) based surfaces present a relatively low coefficient of friction (COF), but this can be improved if silicon carbide (SiC) is dispersed on the surface. In the present paper an experimental investigation is presented for assessing the efficiency of the use of SiC aggregates for this purpose. FTIR and DSC methods were used for assessing the curing of the composite surfaces. Optical microscopy was used for assessing the geometrical characteristics of the SiC aggregates. The surface roughness of the composite surfaces was also measured and corelated to COF. The COF was measured using scratch test and an industry specific test. The friction mechanisms due to the use of the aggregates are discussed.