Plasma Treated Carbon Black/Titanium Diboride Epoxy Composites: Synergetic Effect on Tribological Properties

ABSTRACT In the present investigation we explore the modified epoxy (Ep) composite by cold plasma treated fillers. It is completely analyzed by structure, morphology, mechanical, thermophysical, and wear‐resistance properties. Conducting carbon black (CCB) and Titanium diboride (TiB 2 ) were initially exposed to a pin‐on‐plate plasma. Void optimization was observed by 22%–33% in the composite system compared to virgin epoxy. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirms the presence of hybrid filler‐induced order domains by phase transform. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) confirms the presence of hydrogen bonding (3600 cm −1 ) as a function of loaded hybrid filler. Raman spectroscopy confirms that the increased I D / I G ratio is due to the surface defect over the hybrid filler. Planar morphology and uniform dispersion of hybrid filler were revealed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Shore D hardness increased (15%–16%) for the treated hybrid filler composite. Thermal conductivity (0.2–0.5 W/mk) was directly proportional to plasma duration, confirmed by portable Lee's disc method. Glass transition temperature ( T g ) increased as a function of plasma. Dielectric constant and loss followed the Maxwell‐Wagner polarization model. Synergetic effect on wear demonstrated (≤ 50% to 80%) compared to virgin Ep. These findings may be feasible for various engineering applications.