Wear resistance of composites based on hybrid UHMWPE–PTFE matrix: Mechanical and tribotechnical properties of the matrix

In order to develop biocompatible antifriction composites based on UHMWPE the mechanical and tribotechnical characteristics of a hybrid polymer matrix in the form of a mixture (blend) of UHMWPE with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) have been studied under dry friction, boundary lubrication, and abrasive wear. It has been shown that the wear rate of the material under dry sliding friction was reduced more than twofold compared with pure UHMWPE. However, the mechanical characteristics have changed insignificantly. Under the boundary lubrication (distilled water), the wear resistance of the matrix material is similar to that for dry sliding friction. Under abrasive wear, the durability of the composites differs a little from that for pure UHMWPE. The mechanisms of wear of the polymer blend UHMWPE–PTFE under dry sliding friction and abrasive wear have been discussed.