The effect of fiber oxidation on the tribological behavior of 3D-braided carbon fiber/nylon composites

To investigate the influence of carbon fiber oxidation on the tribological behavior of the 3D-braided carbon fiber/nylon composites (C-3D/MCN), C-3D/MCN composites were prepared. The characteristics of carbon fibers with different conditions were characterized. The mechanical property, friction and wear tests of the composites with untreated and treated carbon fabric were performed and the worn surface morphology and wear debris were analysed. The results show that the specific surface area of the treated carbon fiber was far higher than that of the untreated carbon fiber and there formed a functional group of -C=O on the carbon fiber surface after air oxidation. The flexural strength, flexural modulus and shear strength of C-3D/MCN composites with oxidized carbon fiber fabric were improved. The friction coefficient and wear rate of C-3D/MCN composites with oxidized carbon fiber fabric were apparently lower than that with untreated carbon fiber fabric. In conclusion, the surface treatment favored the improvement of the higher interface strength and so had good effect on improving the tribological properties of the composites. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.