Effects of TiO2 nano-particles on wear-resistance and vibration-reduction properties of a polymer for water-lubricated bearing

Water-lubricated bearings play a vital role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental friendliness of ships. However, under the operating conditions such as start-stop and steering, the ship's stern bearing is often in boundary-lubricated or even dry friction condition due to the weak load-bearing capacity of the water film between the ship's drive shaft and the stern bearing. Therefore, the design of a polymer material with a low coefficient of friction and low vibration amplitude in both water-lubricated and dry friction conditions can greatly improve the stability and safety of the ship's operation. As a common reinforcing filler , TiO 2 nanoparticles have a notable enhancement effect on the tribological properties of lubricants. Therefore, in this paper, the tribological behaviors between UHMWPE matrix reinforced with TiO 2 nanoparticles and zirconia ceramic ball were investigated and the frictional vibrations during the friction process were analyzed. The results showed that TiO 2 generated a ball-bearing effect on the surfaces of the friction pair , which led to a smooth and flat wear surface and reduced the friction and vibration behaviors. The modified composite with 0.9 wt% TiO 2 exhibited the best tribological and vibration-absorbing properties in both water-lubricated and dry friction conditions. This study helps to provide a theoretical foundation for the design of marine water-lubricated bearing materials with excellent wear-resistance and vibration-reduction properties.