Super Hydrophobic UHMWPE/PTFE/PVA Composites with Low Friction: Preparation and Wear Mechanism
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study develops novel superhydrophobic UHMWPE/PTFE/PVA composites via hot-pressing sintering to achieve ultra-low friction and enhanced wear resistance. The ternary system synergistically combines UHMWPE’s mechanical stability, PTFE’s lubricity, and PVA’s dispersion/binding capability. Results show PTFE disrupts UHMWPE crystallization, reducing melting temperature by 2.77 °C and enabling energy dissipation. All composites exhibit hydrophobicity, with optimal formulations (UPP3/UPP4) reaching superhydrophobicity. Tribological testing under varied loads and frequencies reveals low friction, where UPP1 achieves a COF of 0.043 and wear rate below 1.5 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m) under low-load conditions. UHMWPE oxidative degradation forming carboxylic acids at the interface (C=O at 289 eV, C–O at 286 eV). Formation of tungsten oxides (WO3/WO2), carbides (WC), and transfer films on steel counterparts. A four-step tribochemical reaction pathway is established. PVA promotes uniform transfer films, while PTFE lamellar peeling and UHMWPE chain stability enable sustained lubrication. Carbon-rich stratified accumulations under high-load/speed increase COF via abrasive effects. The composites demonstrate exceptional biocompatibility and provide a scalable solution for biomedical and industrial tribological applications.
Source: Polymers
Authors: Hai Wang, Zhiwei Shao, Kuiyuan Shen, Buhe Bateer, Fushen Ren, Xiaowen Qi
Institutions: Yanshan University, Northeast Petroleum University
Language: English
Topic: Tribology and Wear Analysis
Subfield: Mechanics of Materials
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
Award: G2203291323
OpenAlex ID: W4411353600