On Three Body Abrasive Wear Resistance of Eggshell and Marble Powder Reinforced Hybrid Sustainable Polymer Composites

This study investigates the optimization of eggshell and marble powder fillers to enhance the three-body abrasive wear resistance of hybrid sustainable polymer composites. Eggshell and marble powder, both abundantly available waste materials, are chosen for their potential in enhancing the mechanical properties of polymer composites while promoting sustainability. The proposed composites and their hybrids are developed using open moulding approach and are subjected to three body abrasive test as per ASTM G65 standard under varied loading conditions and at different time. Taguchi’s L16 orthogonal array is used to determine the optimal condition leading to reduced wear rate and enhanced resistance against wear. The findings reveal that marble powder significantly affects the specific wear rate of the developed composites compared to other factors of the study. Marble powder at 20 wt%, egg shell at 0 wt% with load and time at 40 N and 25 min respectively are preferred for reduced wear of the developed composites according to Taguchi’s study carried out in the present work. Varying mechanisms of wear observed between these fillers emphasize the importance of understanding the distinct properties and behaviors of each filler material when incorporated into composite matrices. In case of eggshell reinforced composites, deeper and more pronounced grooves can be observed, indicating substantial material removal during wear. In marble powder reinforced composites, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images show minimal wear debris and shallower grooves compared to eggshell-reinforced composites. The wear debris present are smaller in size and less dispersed across the surface. SEM images of hybrid composites show intermediate characteristics between eggshell-reinforced and marble powder-reinforced composites. Grooves and wear debris are moderately pronounced compared to the individual components. This research contributes to the development of eco-friendly materials tailored for applications demanding high wear resistance such as composite brake pads, thereby promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.