Development of composite materials based on UHMWPE using carbon and basalt fibers

In contemporary material’s science, the development of high-strength composite materials derived from polymers represents a significant strategic focus. A promising method to enhance the mechanical properties of these materials involves the incorporation of fibrous fillers as modifiers within the polymer matrix, which markedly improves loadbearing capacity. This research investigates the effects of basalt and carbon fibers on the mechanical and tribological characteristics, and on the structural formation processes in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The fibrous fillers were introduced into the polymer matrix without prior modification at concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 weight percent. Notably, composites containing 20 weight percent carbon fiber exhibited the most pronounced enhancement in elastic modulus, achieving an impressive increase of 66 %. Additionally, a significant reduction in the coefficient of friction was observed, with a decrease of 65 % relative to the unmodified polymer. Furthermore, the wear rate was found to decrease by 23 %. The addition of both carbon and basalt fibers into UHMWPE led to substantial improvements in tensile strength, with increases of 37 % and 28 %, respectively. Analysis of the friction surfaces of the composites through infrared spectroscopy indicated that neither type of fiber influenced the tribochemical processes during wear. The morphological examination of the friction surfaces suggested that carbon fiber possesses a comparative advantage over basalt, contributing to orientation effects and the formation of a wear-resistant layer. The materials developed in this study hold potential applications in the production of antifriction components, particularly for highly loaded sliding bearing elements in bridge structures.