Tribological characteristics of carbon fibre reinforced epoxy composite filled with ceramic particles: influence of multi-walled carbon nanotubes

In this experimentation, an endeavour has been taken to develop the short carbon fibre (SCF) reinforced epoxy composites mixed with multi-walled carbon nano-tubes (MWCNT) and silicon carbide particles (SiCp) using a compression moulding machine. The quantity of MWCNT was modified by 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%, and SiCp quantity has been taken as 15% by weight of the composite. The influence of the ceramic particles on the wear characteristics of SCF stiffened epoxy was explored. The wear testing variables, namely normal load, sliding speed, and sliding distance, were considered for the dry sliding wear test. As per the ASTM standards, the wear test was executed utilising the pin-on-disc apparatus, and the composite's rate of wear and friction coefficient were studied. The worn-out area on the wear test specimen was examined utilising a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to recognise the wear mechanism of the composites.