Tribological investigations on fibre-reinforced composites: a comprehensive review considering variable velocity and load scenarios

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of recent tribological tests conducted on fibre reinforced composites (FRCs) under different load and velocity conditions. The objective is to furnish details on the wear characteristics, friction qualities, and lubrication systems of these sophisticated materials. Fibre-reinforced composites, composed of a matrix and reinforcing fibres, exhibit unique mechanical properties and are subject to the study of friction and wear due to differences in fibre type, matrix composition, and production techniques. The wear resistance and friction performance of fibre-reinforced composites (FRCs) are affected by the interaction between the fibres and the matrix, as well as external factors like load and velocity. Various experimental and numerical techniques have been used to study the tribological behavior of FRCs under different velocity and load conditions. The investigations have shown that the applied load and relative motion speed have a substantial impact on the rate of wear, friction coefficient, and effectiveness of lubrication in FRCs. This article provides a comprehensive assessment of recent tribological tests conducted on fibre-reinforced composites, examining their performance under different velocity and load conditions. In industries such as automotive, aerospace, and maritime, where it is crucial to have good tribological performance to enhance durability and reduce maintenance expenses, the insights gained from these studies can greatly assist in optimizing the design and use of FRCs. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.