Abstract
The tribological performances of epoxy-based composites, filled with short carbon fibre, graphite, PTFE and nano-TiO
2 in different proportions and combinations, were investigated. The patterns of frictional coefficient, wear resistance and contact temperature were examined by a pin-on-disc apparatus in a dry sliding condition under different contact pressures and sliding velocities. The experimental results indicated that the addition of nano-TiO
2 could apparently reduce the frictional coefficient, and consequently reduce the contact temperature of fibre-reinforced epoxy composites. As a result, the wear resistance of the composites was significantly enhanced, especially at extreme wear conditions, i.e. high contact pressures and sliding velocities. Compared to traditional fillers, epoxy nanocomposites attained generally improved both wear resistance and load-carrying capacity.