Mesopore silica effect on chemical, thermal and tribological properties of polyimide composites

In this experimental study, the effects of mesoporous silica filler content on the chemical, thermal and tribological properties of polyimide composites were investigated. For that purpose, Pi/mesoporous silica composites were produced by in situ polymerization with various mesoporous silicas. After fabrication, thermal stability and chemical characterization were determined using TGA and FTIR. Morphological alterations were monitored with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Texture structure (pore size and pore volume) were determined by the BJH method. Friction and wear properties were investigated by using a pin-on-disc arrangement. At the end of the study, minor shifts of Pi/mesoporous silica composites were observed. Thermal stability, as well as pore size and pore volume, was decreased with mesoporous silica. The coefficient of friction and specific wear rate decreased with the addition of mesoporous silica. Abrasive wear behaviors were seen for both neat Pi and Pi-Si composites. Hence, this study evidenced that the properties of Pi are influenced by mesoporous dimensions and content of Si employed.