Enhanced Tribological and Electrical Performance of Graphene-Coated Polyetheretherketone Nanocomposites

Abstract

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is utilized in various industries due to its high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and excellent mechanical properties. This study aims to develop a method for effectively dispersing graphene to enhance the friction properties and electric-resistance characteristics of PEEK. Functionalized graphene, recognized as an efficient additive, was evaluated for its impact on the melt behavior, thermal, tribological, and electrical properties of PEEK–graphene nanocomposites with different filler contents. The results indicate that graphene acts as a nucleating agent in PEEK–graphene nanocomposites, enhancing their crystallinity. However, it also hinders the diffusion of polymer chains, reducing crystal sizes, which adversely affects melt flow. The nanocomposite with a graphene content of 1.0 wt.% exhibited excellent friction properties and surface resistance properties. Furthermore, it was discovered that blending hybrid additives of different shapes is more advantageous for forming three-dimensional particle networks compared to adding single graphene.

Keywords: Polyetheretherketone, Graphene, Friction, Electric Resistance, Nanocomposites