Multi-response optimization of wear parameters of flax reinforced epoxy composites using Taguchi-GRA-PCA approach

Taguchi-grey relational analysis (GRA) coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) has been employed to optimize the multi-response wear characteristics of the trimethoxymethylsilane treated flax fibre reinforced epoxy (F-E) composites. Dry sliding wear test has been performed as per ASTM G99 based on the experimental schedule of Taguchi's orthogonal arrays (L27). Wear responses selected for the current investigation are specific wear rate (SWR), coefficient of friction (COF) and shore D hardness. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) of GRG clearly reveals that sliding velocity is most significant factor affecting the wear performance of the F-E composites followed by fibre content and applied load. Fieldemission scanning electron microscopy reveals that F-E composite endure thermal softening and cracks around its interfacial bonding region.