Molecular dynamics study on tribological properties of EUG/NR composites

Tribological behavior of aircraft tire directly affects its service life. In order to improve the strength of tire rubber materials, the Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) is introduced to blend with natural rubber (NR) for reinforced composite. However, owing to the complexity of the friction mechanism and huge difference in space-time scale, research on the mechanism of EUG reinforcement and composite-road friction is insufficient at the atom level. Therefore, simulations with different ratio EUG/NR compositions have been carried out for the prediction and analysis of the mechanical, adsorptive, and frictional properties. Results indicate that the EUG enhancement firstly gets strengthen and then gets weaken. The most obvious enhanced mechanical performance occurs when the EUG contents are 20 and 30; the 30/70 EUG/NR composite has the best effect on reducing the static interfacial adsorption mainly formed by van der Waals interaction; 30/70 EUG/NR composite has the highest friction coefficient and relatively low friction deformation tendency. The EUG content should not exceed 40 for optimal reinforced composite. Combining a variety of characteristics, the 30/70 ratio with the highest friction coefficient and relatively high strength is predicted to be the most suitable ratio for aircraft tire applications.