In this study, the tribological properties of nanocomposites based on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) lled with nano-CuO and 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (CuO/MBT) in mass ratios of 1:1 and 2:1 were investigated. In the supramolecular structure of UHMWPE nanocomposites, spherulites of several hundred micrometers in size are formed. The density of UHMWPE nanocomposites slightly increases relative to the pure polymer, reaching a maximum at 2 wt.% CuO/MBT in both ratios. The Shore D hardness and compressive stress of the UHMWPE nanocomposites showed an improvement of 5–6% and 23–35%, respectively. The wear resistance and coecient of friction of UHMWPE nanocomposites were tested using a pin-on-disk conguration under dry friction conditions on #45 steel and on P320 sandpaper. It was shown that the wear rate of UHMWPE nanocomposites lled with 2 wt.% CuO/MBT decreased by ~3.2 times compared to the pure polymer, and the coecient of friction remained at the level of the polymer matrix. Abrasive wear showed an improvement in UHMWPE nanocomposites lled with 1 wt.% CuO/MBT compared to the polymer matrix and other samples. The worn surfaces of the polymer composites after dry friction were examined by scanning electron microscopy and IR spectroscopy. The formation of secondary structures in the form of tribolms that protect the material from wear was demonstrated. Due to this, the wear mechanism of UHMWPE nanocomposites is transformed from adhesive to fatigue wear. The developed materials, due to improved mechanical and tribological properties, can be used as parts in friction units of machines and equipment.
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