Influence of Graphene Filler on the Mechanical Properties of Acetal

In recent years, polymers are extensively utilized in tribological components such as cams, brakes, bearings and gears because of their self-lubrication properties, lower friction, better wear resistance, low noise and cost. Polymers are associated with some inherent deficiencies which can be altered successfully by using various special fillers there by producing polymer composites. More and more polymer composites are now being used as sliding components, which were formerly composed only of metallic materials. Polymers used for fabrication of tribological components should have excellent friction and wear behavior apart from having good mechanical properties. In the present work an attempt has been made to prepare composites by incorporating graphene nano particles in acetal copolymer which can act as self lubricant and also reduce the wear with counterpart material. Graphene has superior electrical conductivity than graphite and other allotropes of carbon because of its high surface area and chemical tolerance. The present work represents the preparation of graphene filler on a bulk scale from graphite in an affordable and easy technique.