Facile synthesis of WS2@GO nanohybrids for significant improvement in mechanical and tribological performance of EP composites

Developing high-performance polymeric tribo-materials with superior integrated properties is of vital importance in consideration of energy and environment. In this work, using commercial epoxy (EP) as matrix, the hybrids constructed by graphene oxide (GO) and tungsten disulfide (WS2) were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal reaction to enhance properties of EP composites. The WS2 nano-flowers were uniformly grown onto the surface of GO nanosheets, which interconnected with each other to develop a hierarchical structure. The unique hierarchical microstructure of WS2@GO nanohybrids with large specific surface area and abundant active groups was conducive to the filler-polymer interfacial interactions and multiple enhancement. As a result, the resultant EP/WS2@GO composites displayed outstanding integrated properties, including 81.7% higher tensile strength, 13 °C higher thermal stability, 47.04% lower friction coefficient, and 36.57% higher abrasion resistance. This work will provide a significant guidance for the development of high-performance polymeric tribo-materials. •WS2@GO nanohybrids are synthesized by one-step hydrothermal process.•The WS2 and GO in WS2@GO nanohybrids could integrate the multiple advantages.•The mechanical and thermal performance of EP/WS2@GO composites are enhanced effectively.•The wear rate and friction coefficient were decreased by 36.57% and 47.04% for EP/WS2@GO composites.