Tribological characterization of graphene nanoplatelets/alumina particles filled epoxy hybrid nanocomposites

In this work, graphene nanoplatelets have been synthesized using liquid phase exfoliation of graphite flake powder. The exfoliated graphene nanoplatelets were identified and characterized by using UV–Visible–NIR spectroscopy, High resolution transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The obtained graphene nanoplatelets and nano alumina at various weight ratios were dispersed in an epoxy matrix to enhance the surface roughness ( R a ), micro hardness ( H v ) and coefficient of friction (CoF) of epoxy hybrid nanocomposites. The results showed that the R a and CoF value for the combined loading of 0.2 wt% of graphene nanoplatelets and 0.8 wt% of alumina into the epoxy was decreased to 41.02 and 20.01% whereas, the H v value was increased to 10.04% when compared with the neat epoxy. The improved mechanical and tribological behaviors are suitable for the applications bearing and coating.