Influence of Carbon Particle in Polymer Matrix Composite over Mechanical Properties and Tribology Behavior

Abstract

In this research, the carbon particle dispersions are made in two different levels as carbon nano tube (CNT) and carbon particle in microns range. The mechanical strength is evaluated for the composites developed by axial loading and bending test analysis. In addition, the air jet abrasive particle erosion study is performed for different angle of impingement. The dispersion of carbon particle in the matrix material has reduced the mechanical strength. The sample with 4% of CNT dispersion in the composite has a maximum strength of 143 MPa and a minimum strength of 112 MPa. For the same combination (4% of CNT composite), the maximum flexural strength is 116 MPa. It is clear to infer that the strength of CNT in matrix materials is superior to the increase in length of carbon particle. The dispersion of carbon particle in the matrix material increases the brittleness and the strength is diminished. During the flexural bending, the fiber delamination occurred with severe deformation in the plain composite. When the materials are subjected to impingement of solid particle, the attrition effect on the exposed surfaces is vulnerable towards erosive mechanism. The presence of carbon in the matrix material has significantly increased the surface property. The results are appreciable for 4% of CNT composite. Especially at 30º, the minimum erosive wear 0.0033 g/g has been recorded. Erosive wear is less at minimum impingement angle and the wear is found increasing at higher impingement angle. Therefore, it is recommended not to add carbon particle to a higher weight percentage, since it leads to brittleness.