Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer with excellent chemical resistance, thermal stability and mechanical properties. However, to expand its application area, it often requires modification by reinforcement. In recent years, quasi-crystalline materials, in particular Al-Cu-Fe systems, have attracted attention due to their unique structural and physical-mechanical characteristics.
The introduction of quasicrystalline Al-Cu-Fe particles into the PPS matrix allows the creation of composites with improved properties. The structure of such composites is characterized by the dispersion of reinforcing particles in the polymer matrix. The degree of dispersion, the size and shape of the Al-Cu-Fe particles, as well as the adhesion between the particles and the polymer matrix, have a significant effect on the final properties of the composite.
The mechanical properties of PPS composites reinforced with quasi-crystalline Al-Cu-Fe particles demonstrate significant improvement compared to pure PPS. In particular, an increase in tensile strength, elastic modulus and hardness is observed. This is due to the high strength and hardness of the quasi-crystalline particles, as well as their ability to effectively transfer loads from the polymer matrix.
Thermal properties of composites also undergo changes. Introduction of quasicrystalline Al-Cu-Fe particles leads to an increase in the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of the composite. This is due to the high thermal stability of the quasicrystalline phase and its ability to prevent degradation of the polymer matrix at elevated temperatures.
The tribological properties of PPS composites reinforced with quasicrystalline Al-Cu-Fe particles are also of interest. Quasicrystalline materials are known for their high wear resistance and low friction coefficient. The introduction of these particles into the PPS matrix allows for the creation of composites with improved tribological characteristics, making them promising for use in friction and wear conditions.
Author: D. I. Chukov, A. A. Stepashkin, V. V. Cherdyntsev, L. K. Olifirov, S. D. Kaloshkin
Institute: Center for Composite Materials, National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow, Russia