Tribological Behaviour of Newly Developed UHMWPE-nanocomposites : As Suitable Candidates for Ski Material and Design

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been the main material used as ski base material for almost half a century. This is mainly because of its high wear resistance, frictional characteristics, hydrophobic properties, and last but not least its affordable price. This master thesis project aims at experimentally investigating the tribological behaviour of newly developed UHMWPE-nanocomposites as suitable candidates for ski base material.UHMWPE-nanocomposites consisting of 0.5 wt% Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) or 0.5 wt% Graphene Oxide (GO) were prepared using planetary ball milling and Direct Compression Moulding (DCM). The materials were further modified with two different treatments, by cross-linking and accelerated aging. Tribological investigations were carried out using a pin-on-disc test configuration with polymer pin sliding against a cobalt chromium alloy disc as counter surface. Analysis of the materials and the worn surfaces were carried out using surface profiler, Extreme High-resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (XHR-SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and contact angle machine,The results of this study showed that the incorporation of nanoparticles enhanced the wear resistance as well as the hydrophobic properties of UHMWPE, regardless of treatment (non-treated, aged, or cross-linked), which are both favourable characteristics for skiing applications. For all materials, except for non-treated UHMWPE, a deterioration of the wear resistance could be seen with aging.Validerat; 20141219 (global_studentproject_submitter