Effects of <scp>PE</scp> Modulus and Interfacial Compatibility on Friction and Wear Properties of <scp>PA66</scp>/<scp>PE</scp> Blends

ABSTRACT Various types of polyethylene (PE) and their maleic anhydride grafts (MAPE) were incorporated into PA66 to enhance its tribological properties. The effects of PE modulus and interfacial compatibility on the friction and wear properties of PA66/PE blends were investigated. The results demonstrate that the coefficient of friction (COF) and volume wear rate (𝜔) of PA66/PE blends were significantly reduced with the inclusion of PE. Notably, as the flexibility of the PE chains increased (indicated by a reduction in the flexural elastic modulus), both COF and 𝜔 further decreased. The optimal blend exhibited a COF of 0.22 and a 𝜔 of 6.68 × 10 −6 mm 3 /(N·m), representing reductions of 56.8% and 82.0%, respectively, compared to neat PA66. Moreover, the introduction of maleic anhydride groups improved interfacial compatibility, resulting in the PA66/MAPE blends with superior wear resistance and mechanical properties.