Fabrication and Properties of High Performance PEEK/Si(3)N(4) Nanocomposites

Abstract

The crystallization, morphology, micro-hardness, scratch hardness, dynamic modulus, and wear behavior of high performance poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) matrix nanocomposites reinforced with 0 to 30 wt % silicon nitride (Si(3)N(4)) nanoparticles were reported. The crystallinity of PEEK nanocomposites increases at 2.5 wt % Si(3)N(4) but, thereafter it decreases with increasing Si(3)N(4) content due to the hindrance to the ordering of PEEK chains. The crystallization peak temperature and crystallization onset temperature increases by 14 degrees C for 10 wt % nanocomposite. The melting temperature does not vary significantly with Si(3)N(4) content. SEM shows almost uniform distribution of Si3N4 in the PEEK matrix. The Vickers micro-hardness and scratch hardness increases significantly up to 10 wt % Si(3)N(4) content. The dynamic modulus of nanocomposites increases below and above T(g) of PEEK. The specific wear rate of nanocomposites with 2.5 wt % Si(3)N(4) is reduced significantly and it is lowest at 10 wt % Si(3)N(4). However, the coefficient of friction of nanocomposites is more than that of pure PEEK. (C) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 119: 311-318, 2011