Characterization of Waste Micro and Nano Tungsten Carbide Powder Reinforced Polyamide 66 Matrix Composites

Abstract

Polyamide 66 (PA 66) or Nylon 66 is a strong, easily processed polymer with high thermal resistance and excellent mechanical properties. Tungsten carbide (WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4), known for its exceptional hardness and elasticity, is commonly used for coatings in the thermal spraying and coating industry. In this study, we examined the microstructural, mechanical, and thermal properties of composites made from waste micro and nano WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4 powder and a PA66 matrix. PA66 was reinforced with varying ratios of 3, 6, and 10 wt.% WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4. The composite specimens were created by mechanically mixing granular PA66 and micro and nano WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4 powders and molding them under controlled temperature. Mechanical properties were evaluated through ductility and hardness tests, while thermal properties were determined through DSC analysis. The SEM observation revealed the distribution of WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4 within the polymer matrix. The DSC analysis indicated that the composite had a slightly higher melting temperature than pure PA66, and the thermal conductivity also increased slightly. The experimental results demonstrated that the mechanical properties of the composite improved as the WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4 content increased, specifically in terms of tensile strength and hardness. Additionally, the composite exhibited enhanced interfacial adhesion, mechanical behavior, and thermal properties. This composite, utilizing WC/Co-Cr 86/10-4 waste and recycled PA66, allows for the repurposing of industrial waste.