Frictional and wear performance of polyester composites based on coir fibres

This article presents an evaluation of frictional and wear performance of new polyester composites based on coir fibres. Coir fibre-reinforced polyester (CFRP) composites were developed in a multi-layer form, mainly in three and four layers. The influence of the coir fibres on the wear and frictional behaviour of polyester was evaluated using a block-on-disc (BOD) machine under dry sliding contact conditions against smooth stainless steel. Worn surfaces of the composites were observed using a scanning electron microscope. The friction coefficient and specific wear rate were presented as a function of sliding distance (0-4.2 km) at different applied loads (10-30 N). The results revealed that all test parameters have a very significant influence on the frictional and wear characteristics of the materials. Moreover, a higher coefficient of friction was exhibited in the four-layer composite. CFRP composites based on three layers exhibited better wear and frictional performance compared with the one with four layers and neat polyester. The wear mechanism was predominated by deformation and micro-ploughing in the resinous regions and debonding of fibres.