Comparative investigation on the tribological behaviors of CF/PEEK composites under sea water lubrication

Carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) composites were prepared and their tribological behaviors under sea water lubrication were comparatively investigated. The results showed that the incorporation of CF can greatly improve the wear resistance of PEEK under sea water lubrication, especially when the volume fraction of CF was about 10%, because exposed CF can effectively share the main load between the contact surfaces and consequently protect the matrix from severe wear. In addition, CF/PEEK had better friction and wear properties under sea water lubrication than under dry friction and pure water lubrication due to better lubricating effect of sea water. ► PEEK composite with 10vol% CF exhibited the best wear resistance. ► Sea water showed better lubricating effect compared to pure water. ► The details of carbon fiber on worn surface were observed by AFM. ► The detailed reinforcement effect of CF on PEEK matrix was discussed.