Research progress on the tribological properties of epoxy-based solid-lubricating composites

To modify the tribological properties of epoxy (EP), additive phases, such as inorganic/organic lubricating fillers, are often introduced to form EP-based solid-lubricating composites, which are extensively utilized in industrial sectors like aerospace, automotive, and electronics. The composite methods can be divided into single-phase composite and multiphase composite. Single-phase fillers can improve the tribological properties of the composite while the content and distribution of the fillers should be precise controlled. Multiphase fillers offer significant advantages in enhancing the comprehensive properties of EP, making them more suitable for practical harsh environments. This review investigates the progress in research on the tribological properties of EP-based solid-lubricating composites and provides an outlook on the future development of lubricating fillers.Highlights In this paper, the commonly used lubricating fillers in EP-based solid-lubricating composites and their composite methods, including inorganic and organic fillers, were reviewed. The various EP-based solid-lubricating composites, and their lubrication or wear mechanisms were introduced in detail, and the future development directions of the composites were prospected. Schematic diagram outlining the design strategy for epoxy-based solid lubricating composites. image