SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF TIO₂ NANOPARTICLES ON THE MECHANICAL INTEGRITY AND TRIBOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF EPOXY COMPOSITES

Epoxy nanocomposites enriched with TiO₂ NPs were designed for bearing and wear-resistant applications. Different samples were generated by mixing TiO₂ at loading amounts of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt. %. The FTIR spectrum and XRD spectra confirmed the successful integration of TiO₂ without disrupting the epoxy fundamental structure. Mechanical testing demonstrated that the inclusion of TiO₂ boosted mechanical characteristics progressively, with the sample comprising 1.5 wt. % TiO₂ achieving a 33.6 % increase in tensile strength and a 10 % boost in both elastic modulus and hardness compared to standard epoxy. The addition of TiO₂ NPs greatly reduced the friction coefficient and mass loss, largely due to their rolling effect and the creation of a protective tribo-film. The highest performance was recorded at a 1.5 wt.% TiO₂ loading, resulting in roughly an 18 % reduction in friction coefficient and 30% in mass loss. Higher loadings induced performance decrease due to particle agglomeration and restricted interfacial mobility. In tandem with experimental efforts, this study pioneered the establishment of an analytical model for a stationary outer race-bearing system, ensuring optimal contact between its constituent components. Employing ABAQUS/CAE software, a meticulous three-dimensional model was devised for the housing and outer race components, with the epoxy washer's properties being defined based on empirical data.