Abstract
The aim of this project is to study the effects of chemical treatment on the tribo-performance of coir reinforced polyester (CFRP) composite. Alkaline treatment and bleaching method were used to perform the surface modification on the coir fibre. In order to investigate the wear performance of treated and untreated CFRP composites, the experimental works were conducted using Pin On Disc (POD) machine at different applied loads (10N, 20N, 30N) and constant rotational speed (2.8m/s). Debonding gap between the untreated coir fibre and matrix resulted in higher weight loss due to lack of protection from the fibres. The results revealed that tribo-performance of the CFRP composite depend on the test parameter and condition. Treated coir fibre exhibited better interfacial adhesion and improved the wear characteristic of the composites. Worn surfaces were observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. The development of friction layer at the rubbing surface enhanced the interaction between the counterface and specimen. The present article discusses some important patents related to Tribo performance of CFRP Composites.
Keywords: Coir fibre, polyester, chemical treatment, wear, friction layer
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