Experimental investigation and optimization of compression moulding parameters for MWCNT/glass/Kevlar/epoxy composites on mechanical and tribological properties

The mechanical properties of hybrid composites are largely influenced by the reinforcing fibres, nanofillers, matrix materials and fabrication methods. Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) fillers reinforced to E-glass/Kevlar/epoxy composites (GKEC) are best suited for structural applications. The present study investigates the effect of adding different amounts of MWCNTs fillers (0.3%, 0.6%, and 0.9% wt) to hybrid neat (E-glass, Kevlar, epoxy) composites on the mechanical properties. Strength (tensile and bending) and hardness properties of the developed composites fabricated using compression moulding technique were evaluated. The effect of compression pressure, mould temperature and the time duration of applied pressure on hybrid (0.6MWCNT-GKEC) were also investigated. The compression pressure had the maximum effect on the tensile and bending strength of the composite, followed by mould temperature and pressure duration. The optimized compression moulding conditions resulted in 181.2 MPa of tensile strength, 143.3 MPa of bending strength and 22.8 HV. The wear rate of hybrid composites is less than that found in neat GKEC composites and showed fewer wear debris, which indicate their exists a smooth surface on worn surface morphologies.