17th International Fiber and Polymer Research Symposium

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Development of self-lubricating polymer blends based on POM-PTFE with nano and micro additives

Authors :

Fatih Gökgöz¹ Merve Mocan²

1- Gebze Technical University 2-

Keywords :

Self-lubricating polymers،Polyoxymethylene (POM)،Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)،Linear actuator gear،low friction polymer composites

Abstract :

Lubrication of materials plays a vital role in continuously moving mechanical systems. Self-lubricating materials reduce the coefficient of friction without the addition of extra lubricants, thus lowering energy consumption, enhancing operational efficiency, and providing significant material savings. Furthermore, they reduce the overall maintenance needs of systems, prolong the lifespan of components, and minimize environmental impacts. This study focuses on the design and development of advanced self-lubricating polymeric materials for linear actuator gears used in hospital beds. The research investigates the preparation of polymeric composite materials based on polyoxymethylene (POM) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and the effects of various ratios of nano and micro additives. The polymer mixture containing 10% PTFE-90% POM was prepared with the additives, carbon nanotube (CNT), molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), and titanium dioxide (TiO2), and the effects of these additives on friction coefficient, mechanical, and morphological properties of the polymer composite were examined. The results show that the composites developed with nano-micro additives exhibit superior performance in terms of friction and mechanical properties compared to those containing 10% PTFE-90% POM and 100% POM. The addition of CNT, ZrO2, and TiO2 further improved these properties, particularly the mechanical strength significantly increased with the addition of CNT. The findings have enabled the self-lubricating materials to make linear actuator gears more durable and less maintenance and service. These materials offer significant benefits, especially for high-performance medical and industrial applications.