Tailoring the tribological performance of SPEEK by sulfonation degree under water lubrication

IF 6.5 2区材料科学 Q1 MATERIALS SCIENCE, COMPOSITES

Composites Communications Pub Date : 2025-02-01 DOI:10.1016/j.coco.2025.102285

Minsong Wu , Zijian Tang , Weizhong Tang , Xiaozhi Chen , Tao Hu , Xiaolei Li , Chenhui Zhang

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is a high-performance engineering polymer suitable for water lubricated bearings. However, some modifications are imperative due to its poor tribological performances in aqueous solutions. Herein, a novel sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK) was synthesized through nucleophilic condensation reaction with well-controlled sulfonation degree. The impact of sulfonation degree on surface hydrophilicity, mechanical strength, and tribological properties of SPEEK was thoroughly investigated. Among them, SPEEK-γ with a sulfonation degree of 2.44 mol% exhibited superior tribological performance. Compared to neat PEEK and Thordon SXL, it showed a reduction in coefficient of friction (COF) by 33.7 % and 39.3 %, respectively, as well as a decrease in wear rate by 54.2 % and 97.8 %, respectively. The exceptional tribological properties of SPEEK-γ can be attributed to the adsorption of hydrated Na⁺ cations facilitated by sulfonic acid groups (–SO₃ˉ), leading to hydration lubrication at the counterface interface while also enhancing intermolecular forces within the polymer matrix through sulfonic acid groups (–SO₃ˉ) presence. Consequently, SPEEK-γ exhibits great potential as an underwater equipment material due to its excellent tribological properties under water lubrication conditions.

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来源期刊

Composites Communications Materials Science-Ceramics and Composites

CiteScore

12.10

自引率

10.00%

发文量

340

审稿时长

36 days

期刊介绍： Composites Communications (Compos. Commun.) is a peer-reviewed journal publishing short communications and letters on the latest advances in composites science and technology. With a rapid review and publication process, its goal is to disseminate new knowledge promptly within the composites community. The journal welcomes manuscripts presenting creative concepts and new findings in design, state-of-the-art approaches in processing, synthesis, characterization, and mechanics modeling. In addition to traditional fiber-/particulate-reinforced engineering composites, it encourages submissions on composites with exceptional physical, mechanical, and fracture properties, as well as those with unique functions and significant application potential. This includes biomimetic and bio-inspired composites for biomedical applications, functional nano-composites for thermal management and energy applications, and composites designed for extreme service environments.