Apparent friction coefficient of composites with two components on surface

Composite materials are often used to improve toughness and sliding performance. However, the change in friction caused by the additive is unknown. In this study, we developed a simulation model to predict the apparent friction coefficient of a material with two surface components. This model presents the elastic surface composed of an assembly of spheres, each characterized by different elastic moduli and friction coefficients relative to the substrate, thereby simulating two-component surface properties. The spheres represent the surface of a polymer with coarse-grained model. The apparent friction coefficient of a surface with elastic spheres sliding at a constant speed on the substrate was calculated. This simple model was utilized to evaluate the variation in the friction coefficient with the mixing of the two components and to examine the frictional reduction obtained by adding a small amount of additional material into the base composition. This research will provide a guide for controlling the friction of composite materials by adding small amounts of additives, which will be industrially useful.