On the Friction and Wear Behaviors of PTFE Based Composites Filled with MoS2 and/or Bronze Particles

This paper accounts for the commercial polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based composites, filled with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and/or bronze particles. Fire loss technique followed by atomic absorption analyses is used here to identify the weight fractions of their constituents. The mechanical properties of the composites are characterized using tensile and hardness tests. The results show that the ultimate strength decreases with the addition of MoS2. Friction and wear behaviors of the different types of PTFE composites sliding against 100Cr6 steel ball are investigated under dry conditions using reciprocating linear tribometer. Experimental results show that the addition of MoS2 in the PTFE-bronze composite reduces the wear of this composite. Its friction coefficient undergoes a sharp increase at the end of the test. Scanning electron microscopy examination shows some micro cracks and flake pieces on its worn surface and an abrasive wear mechanism is identified on the steel counter face using an optical microscope.