Tribological Performance and Wear Life Prediction of Whisker Carbon Nanotube‐Modified Polyether Ether Ketone Composites Across a Broad Temperature Spectrum

ABSTRACT The tribological behavior of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) composites modified with whisker carbon nanotubes (Wh‐CNTs) was systematically investigated across a wide temperature range (25°C–210°C) using reciprocating ball‐on‐disc sliding tests under a maximum Hertzian contact pressure of 290.72 MPa. Both the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear rate of pure PEEK and its composites exhibited a progressive increase with rising temperature. Advanced characterization techniques, including x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), laser Raman microscopy, and thermal emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), were employed to analyze interfacial morphology, chemical evolution, and wear debris formation, elucidating the underlying wear mechanisms. Key findings revealed that the incorporation of 4 wt.% Wh‐CNTs facilitated the formation of a continuous heat‐dissipative transfer film on the GCr15 counterpart surface. Furthermore, temperature‐dependent structural transitions were observed: the 3D network of Wh‐CNTs evolved from a spherical architecture (analogous to rolling bearings) to an ellipsoidal configuration, significantly enhancing high‐temperature lubrication efficiency compared to fragmented structures. These results provide critical insights for predicting wear life and optimizing maintenance cycles of PEEK‐based composites in extreme thermal environments.