Fabrication and wear resistance of Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystal-epoxy composite materials

Wear resistant polymer composites are prepared using a novel filler material, Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals (QC). Novolac epoxy filled with Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystalline powder are evaluated by pin-on-disk testing using a 52100 steel counterface. Epoxy samples filled with aluminum, copper, iron, aluminum oxide, and silicon carbide are tested for comparison. The use of Al–Cu–Fe QC powder, as a filler in epoxy, maximizes the composite wear resistance while minimizing abrasion of the 52100 steel counterface. Wear mechanisms of the Al–Cu–Fe composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The fabrication and wear properties of these unique materials will be described.