Effect of argon plasma surface modification on tribological behavior of biopolymers
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to determine the effect of argon plasma surface modification on tribological properties of conventional ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and vitamin E-blended UHMWPE. In previous studies, some researchers conducted a study on argon plasma surface modification of UHMWPE, but there is no study about argon plasma surface modification of VE-UHMWPE. So another objective of this paper is to compare the results for both the material groups.
Design/methodology/approach
UHMWPE and vitamin E-blended UHMWPE sample surfaces were modified by microwave-induced argon plasma to increase tribological properties of the materials. The modified surfaces were evaluated in terms of wettability and wear behavior. Wettability of the surfaces was determined by contact angle measurements. Wear behavior was examined by ball-on-disc wear tests under lubrication with 25 per cent bovine serum.
Findings
Argon plasma surface modification enhanced the wear resistance and surface wettability properties of conventional UHMWPE and VE-UHMWPE. Wear factor of argon plasma-treated samples reduced, but for VE-UHMWPE samples, this reduction was not as high as the conventional UHMWPE’s wear factor.
Originality/value
In previous studies, some researchers have studied on argon plasma surface modification of UHMWPE, but there is no study about argon plasma surface modification of VE-UHMWPE.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research has been supported by Yildiz Technical University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Department. Project Number: 2014-06-01-GEP02.
Citation
Sagbas, B. (2016), "Effect of argon plasma surface modification on tribological behavior of biopolymers", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 68 No. 4, pp. 508-514. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-11-2015-0176
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited