Effect of Temperature and Relative Humidity on Friction and Wear Properties of Silicone-Based Magnetorheological Elastomer

In this study, the effect of varying temperature and humidity on the friction and wear properties of a silicone-based isotropic magnetorheological (MR) elastomer were examined with an applied magnetic field. Specifically, MR elastomer specimens were fabricated, and a temperature- and humidity-adjustable reciprocating friction tester was employed. The results indicated that the friction coefficient decreased across all tests when a magnetic field was applied. The friction coefficient increased when the temperature increased and slightly decreased following an increase in relative humidity. The wear depth results also exhibited an increasing pattern as the temperature increased and a decreasing pattern when the relative humidity increased. The surface state experienced significant changes under varying temperatures and relative humidity conditions with and without a magnetic field.