High‐performance epoxy–poly(ether ether ketone) blend modified by Fluorinated graphene: Excellent tribology applications

In this study, epoxy (EP) blended with poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) and modified with fluorinated graphene (FG) was casted by the open‐mould method. Semicrystalline phase of the modified blend was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrated the presence of hydrogen bonding, as evidenced by the broadening and downshift of the OH and CO peaks. Distribution of PEEK and exfoliated FG was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Density and void fraction were evaluated. Voids (24%) were reduced as a function of filler loading. Hardness of the modified blend was improved (20–27%>) and confirmed by Shore D. A synergetic effect on the tensile strength and Young's modulus was observed for the modified blend as proved using a universal testing machine. Compared to the virgin system, the Lee's disc method showed a six fold increase in the thermal conductivity of the modified blend. Improved glass transition temperature was observed for virgin epoxy (58.6 °C), epoxy/PEEK (60.50 °C) and epoxy/PEEK–FG (74.2 °C) blends. A reduction of ≤51% in the specific wear rate and a 41.9% reduction in the coefficient of friction were measured using a pin‐on‐disc tribometer.