Enhancing the Tribological Characteristics of Epoxy Composites by the Use of Three-Dimensional Carbon Fibers and Cobalt Oxide Nanowires

In this paper, the results of our research were presented into the sliding wear behaviors of reinforced epoxy composites made with 3D networked carbon fibers ornamented with nanowires of cobalt oxides (NWRs@CFs). Composites are made using the cast-in-place method. Under different normal loads and sliding velocities, these composites' wear and friction coefficient performances are assessed. Tests were performed at 400 rpm spindle speed, 10, 20, and 30 N normal load, and a duration of 300 seconds. Pure epoxy exhibits wear rates of 0.449, 0.481, and 0.501 * 10-5 mm3/Nm at 10, 20, and 30N. Conversely, 3D CFs/epoxy composites exhibit lower wear rates (0.334, 0.360, and 0.390 * 10-5 mm3/Nm) at the same pressure. The epoxy composites of NWRs@CFs wear less, measuring 2.1, 3.5, and 0.4 * 10-5 mm3/Nm under applied loads. The effects of speed on the tribological characteristics were also studied, the friction coefficients for 400, 800, and 600 rpm at 10 N. Pure Epoxy has fraction coefficients of 0.449, 0.494, and 0.552µ at 400, 800, and 600 rpm. In comparison, three-dimensional carbon fibers and epoxy composites show reduced wear rates (0.334, 0.376, and 0.304 µ) under identical loads. Epoxy composites of NWRs@CFs have friction coefficients of 0.261, 0.304, and 0.332µ. Pure epoxy has high wear, indicating less friction resistance.