INFLUENCE OF CHEMICAL MODIFICATION ON TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF ELASTOMERS

physical properties of surface modified synthetic elastomers were stud ied to understand the factors that reduce friction and provide advanta ges in practical use. Bromination, iodination, sulfonation, and chlori nation were investigated. The coefficient of friction mu was measured using a modified version of the pin-on-disc apparatus. The surface ene rgy, morphology, mechanical properties, and extent of chemical modific ation were also measured. An increased stiffness and microroughness we re found to correlate with changes in the coefficient of friction. Sul fonation (100% H2SO4) was found to be the most effective and universal ly acceptable method of chemical treatment from a tribological point o f view. (C) 1995 John Wiley and Sons, Inc.