Mechanical properties of polydicyclopentadiene/graphite nanosheet composites prepared by reaction injection moulding

Abstract

Polydicyclopentadiene (PDCPD)/expanded graphite nanosheets treated with silane coupling agent (TEG) composites were prepared by simulating reaction injection moulding. Studies on the mechanical and tribological properties of the composites were carried out. The results showed that TEG of low content had an effect on reinforcing the PDCPD matrix. The incorporation of TEG in PDCPD greatly decreased wear rates and slightly increased friction coefficients under both dry sliding and oil lubricated conditions. The SEM images of the worn surface revealed their wear mechanisms. Unfilled PDCPD was characterised by spalling, with adhesive wear being the major wear form. Polydicyclopentadiene composites were characterised by plastic deformation, fatigue microcracking, spalling and ploughing effect in dry sliding. The wear forms for PDCPD composites under oil lubricated condition were also complicated, and several wear forms such as adhesive, abrasive and fatigue wears co-existed.