Investigating the tribological performance of polymer nanocomposites using synergistic effects of graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles

The objective of the proposed study was to evaluate the suitability of GO-Ag-reinforced PEEK hybrid nanocomposites for applications that necessitate remarkable tribological properties. The study focuses upon how the synergistic effect of Ag-GO nanoparticles is affecting the structural and material properties of the proposed nanocomposite. The synergistic effect of GO and Ag nanoparticles embedded within PEEK polymer matrix material is assessed in terms of frictional force and wear rate analysis under a variety of process parameters, including variations in load, track diameter, and speed. The test is carried out by applying the pin-on-disc wear testing approach with multiple nanocomposite compositions. Over the test, the frictional force and wear rate were regularly under observation. The synergistic impact of Ag with GO in the synthesis of nanocomposites produces enhanced characteristics. The polymer nanocomposites reinforced with 5 wt.% GO and 5 wt.% Ag was found to be the most suitable for frictional and wear properties. Based on the used characterisation results, this research offers valuable insights into the development of high-performance, self-lubricating hybrid polymer nanocomposites, which could be advantageous to industries such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering.