Development and Investigation of Mechanical Properties of PEEK Fine Particles Reinforced UHMWPE Composites

摘要

In the present work, novel Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composites reinforced with 3wt. %, 6wt. %, 9wt. %, 12wt. % and 15wt. % PEEK particles are fabricated by using hot compression moulding technique and mechanical properties are investigated. Experiments were conducted as per ASTM standards to evaluate the properties of tensile, flexural, impact, and microhardness. The results have revealed that the addition of PEEK to the UHMWPE reduced tensile strength and elongation at break, whereas the Young's modulus of the composites was increased. The composite reinforced with 12 wt. % PEEK has better flexural properties and greater impact strength when compared to other composites. The hardness of the UHMWPE composites was increased based on PEEK content. The morphologies of the fractured surface are analyzed under field emission scanning electron microscope. The results have indicated poor interfacial bonding between PEEK and UHMWPE.