The Reduction in the Deformation of HDPE Composites Using Self-Lubricating Fillers in an Aqueous Environment

Reducing the deformation of polymer matrix materials can decrease the fluctuation of coefficient of friction (COF), and friction-induced vibration and its amplitudes. HDPE composites with T-ZnOw as a fixed strengthening filler were modified with the addition of Si(3)N(4) particles at different concentrations. The COFs, wear rates, micro-morphologies, and friction-induced vibrations were obtained by conducting sliding tests against carbon steel balls in an aqueous environment at a low velocity and high load. The mechanism of the reduction in frictional fluctuation due to the addition of Si(3)N(4) particles was revealed through the frictional responses. The results demonstrated that 4 wt% addition of Si(3)N(4) in HDPE can enhance the strain–stress property and improve the lubrication by forming a lubricating film. Therefore, the surface deformation and the fluctuations of COFs and its vibrations were reduced. The aggregation phenomenon and reduced strain–stress response at a high concentration of Si(3)N(4) disrupted the positive fluctuating reduction, and resulted in a rough surface with severe tearing and cracking deformations. Additionally, it led to fluctuating wear behaviors with high COF and vibrations. The results obtained in this study can elucidate the effects of adding Si(3)N(4) particles to enhance lubrication in polymer composites. Additionally, the results provide a new research method for designing and manufacturing polymer-based composites with low friction-induced fluctuations.