Effect of Surface-Treated Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical and Tribological Performances of Phenolic Resin

Reinforced phenolic resin (PF) was prepared by in situ polymerization of different fractions of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) that had undergone oxidation. The compressive strength and hardness of the material, according to mechanical property testing, was improved by the modified CNTs. The tribological properties of PF composites were investigated by a block-on-ring friction and wear tester. The results indicated that CNTs reinforced PF showed lower friction coefficient and higher wear resistance, compared with pure PF. The morphologies of the worn surfaces, debris, and transfer films were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM). A continuous and thinner transfer film formed during the friction test of the composites led to the significant improvement of the tribological properties.