Tribomechanical and Surface Topographical Investigations of Poly Methyl Methacrylate-Seashell Particle Based Biocomposite

Mechanical and tribological properties are still perceived to be one of the most important limiting factors in the performance of PMMA biocomposite. Consequently, a range of different materials have been used as filler particles to enhance the long term performance of the biocomposite. In this present work, experimental study has been carried out to evaluate the mechanical compressive strength and wear of the poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA)-seashell particles based biocomposite. Six different compositions of seashell particles ranging from 0% to 20% in PMMA are mixed to make biocomposites. The compressive strength of the composites was found by universal testing machine. The addition of seashell particles increased the compressive strength with 8% filled composite having maximum compressive strength than other composites. There was no significant change observed between 8% and 12% filled composite. However, both showed significant positive effect on the compressive strength of the specimens compared to unfilled composite. The wear test of the biocomposites was carriedout using pin on disc tribometer. The 12% filled composite had better wear resistant property than other biocomposites. On addition of more content of seashell particles, the wear resistant property decreased in 16% and 20% filled biocomposite. The surface topography of seashell particles in the biocomposite and wear track obtained during the wear tests were studied using scanning electron microscopy. Optimum tribomechanical properties were found at 12% seashell particles filled PMMA biocomposite. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd.