Effects of fine-dispersed PTFE on load carrying capacity of PEEK

Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE)-blended poly(ether-etherketone) (PEEK)-based materials for bearings was evaluated by ring-on-disc test equipment. The role of PTFE on load carrying capacities was studied from the viewpoint of tribochemistry. The load carrying capacities of PEEK-based materials were improved by the addition of PTFE. The dispersion degree of PTFE in PEEK strongly affected the tribological properties. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to study the surface chemistry of the rubbed surface. The results indicate that the formation of boundary film composed of PTFE is beneficial to improve load carrying capacities. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.