Composite based on polymethylmethacrylate with fractal clusters of ZrO2 particles

Abstract

The paper presents new composite material with a three-dimensional fractal structure of ZrO2 nanostructured microparticles, distributed in a matrix of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The conditions and the method of producing the composite samples are described. The procedure of the sample structure study and mechanical tests are presented. It was found that the resulting composite with a content of ZrO2 particles from 0.1 to 5 wt % in PMMA matrix possesses better strength properties compared to PMMA without filler: those are a lower coefficient of friction and high wear resistance. The composite can be used to replace PMMA in glazing assembly parts of various technical appliances.