Effects of fiber surface modification on the friction coefficient of luffa fiber/polyester composites under dry sliding condition

In this study, the fiber extracted from the fruit of a luffa plant was used as a reinforcement to an unsaturated polyester resin matrix under two different fiber conditions. The untreated and alkali-treated fibers were impregnated and pressed to produce laminates. Composites were made with an optimal compression pressure of 5 MPa for 12 h of curing at room temperature. Ejected samples were cut according to the dimensions specified by the ASTM test specifications. To investigate the effects of fiber surface treatment on the frictional behavior of the produced composites under dry sliding wear conditions, wear test was conducted in a pin-on-disc equipment as per ASTM G99 at varying sliding velocities. In addition, hardness and un-notched impact strengths were measured and discussed. Results showed that the change in fiber surface morphology significantly changed the coefficient of friction of the composites. Moreover, the sliding distance had a prominent influence in increasing the friction between the composite and the counter face.