Friction Properties of PTFE Matrix Composites Reinforced by PPS and PPTA Fibers

The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) matrix composites reinforced by polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) fiber and poly-p-phenelenferephthalamide (PPTA) fiber were prepared by the processes of mechanical blending, compression molding and sintering. The fractured surfaces of impacting specimens were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tribological properties of the composites were investigated on M-2000 wear tester at dry friction condition. The wear mechanism was also discussed and the wear surfaces were examined by SEM. The result indicates that fibers which diffused in PTFE matrix wind with PTFE molecule chain, and then form grid structure. The load-bearing capacity of composites can be obviously enhanced and the trend of block fragmentation’s slide is inhibited, so that the tribological properties are improved markedly. The friction coefficient of composites is reduced by adding graphite which also prevents fibers leaving. The tribological properties of PTFE matrix composites is greatly improved because of the synergistic effect between fibers and graphite, which has good prospect for low loading application.