Project

sustainable wear-resistant polymers for offshore applications

Code
bof/baf/4y/2024/01/091
Duration
01 January 2024 → 31 December 2025
Funding
Regional and community funding: Special Research Fund
Research disciplines
  • Engineering and technology
    • Polymer composites
    • Destructive and non-destructive testing of materials
    • Surface engineering
Keywords
polymer composites friction polymers wear offshore
 
Project description

Wear-resistant polymers are gaining attention for offshore applications, where they must endure harsh conditions, abrasives, and mechanical stress. This study investigates the mechanical and tribological properties of advanced wear-resistant polymer composites for use in oil and gas exploration, marine infrastructure, and renewable energy systems.

We analyze various polymer matrices, including thermoplastics and thermosets, enhanced with additives like nanoparticles and fiber reinforcements to boost wear resistance, strength, and chemical stability. Solid lubricants such as PTFE or MoS2 are incorporated to improve friction properties. Key performance metrics—abrasion resistance, impact toughness, and fatigue behavior—are assessed against real-world offshore conditions.

The research will also explore alternatives to PTFE and its derivatives. We will examine wear behavior, micro-mechanisms, surface changes, and tribological properties, along with wear particle generation. Conducting tests under varying pressure-velocity conditions will facilitate effective selection of polymer sliding elements and tribotechnical components for engineering design.