Effects of fiber content on abrasive wear of Lantana Camara fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite

Abstract

This work aims to present a study on abrasive wear behaviour of locally available Lantana-Camara fiber (LCF), reinforced in epoxy matrix. Wear tests are carried out in dry conditions on a pin-on-disc machine against 400 grit size abrasive paper with test speed of 0.314 m/s and normal load 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 N. The effects of fiber content on abrasive wear properties of composites are investigated. The results show that the incorporation of LCF into epoxy improves the abrasive wear behaviour considerably. The optimum wear reduction is obtained when fiber content is 40 wt%. It is observed that abrasive wear loss increases with increase of normal load. The worn surface morphologies are examined by SEM and possible wear mechanism has been discussed