TRIBOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF LASER-TEXTURED BIOPOLYMER AND POLYAMIDE COMPOSITES

Reducing Laser Surface Texturing (LST) has emerged as an effective method to improve the tribological performance of polymer surfaces, offering both functional enhancements and economic advantages. Unlike chemical modification or bulk reinforcement, LST allows fine-tuning of surface properties without altering the base material or processing parameters, leading to reduced tooling wear and energy consumption in industrial applications. This study investigates the effects of LST on the surface behavior of four injection-molded polymers: Arboblend V2 Nature, Arbofill Fichte, PA6.6 and PA6.6 reinforced with glass microspheres. Two surface textures (square and hexagonal patterns) were applied using 4 and 6 laser passes, followed by microindentation and scratch resistance testing to evaluate mechanical hardness and frictional behavior. Results show that Arbofill Fichte and PA6.6 reinforced with glass microspheres demonstrated the most favorable performance, with up to 20% reduction in penetration depth and lower average coefficients of friction, especially under the square pattern with 6 passes. Arboblend V2 Nature, while eco-friendlier, exhibited higher surface deformation and friction, indicating limited suitability for high-load applications without additional treatment. The use of LST significantly enhanced surface durability across all materials tested, enabling the tailoring of properties based on application-specific requirements. These findings support the integration of laser-textured biopolymers and reinforced polyamides in industrial sectors where cost-efficiency, mechanical reliability, and environmental sustainability must converge.