Blessing Kudzai Matanda

Mr. Blessing Kudzai Matanda

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

4Years (2023-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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22 June 2023 in Polymers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
VPVijay Kanjibhai Patel
Vijay Kanjibhai Patel
UJUnnati Joshi
Unnati Joshi
Anand Yagneshbhai JoshiAnand Yagneshbhai Joshi
Anand Yagneshbhai Joshi
BMBlessing Kudzai Matanda
Blessing Kudzai Matanda
KCKamlesh V. Chauhan
Kamlesh V. Chauhan
Dumitru-Doru Burduhos-NergisDumitru-Doru Burduhos-Nergis
Dumitru-Doru Burduhos-Nergis
This manuscript presents an experimental investigation of the friction and wear properties of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposites reinforced with functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of MWCNTs as a reinforcement material for enhancing the tribological performance of PMMA. Three types of multi-walled carbon nanotubes, i.e., pristine, hydroxyl functionalized, and carboxyl functionalized, were utilized in this study. The nanocomposite samples were prepared by dispersing varying concentrations of MWCNTs (0.1 wt.%, 0.5 wt.%, and 1 wt.%) within the PMMA matrix via a 3D mixing approach, followed by injection molding/compression molding. The resulting nanocomposite films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe the dispersion of MWCNTs within the PMMA matrix. The friction and wear tests were conducted using a pin-on-disk tribometer under dry sliding conditions. The effects of functionalization and MWCNT content on the tribological behaviors of the nanocomposites were analyzed. The nanocomposites exhibited lower friction coefficients and reduced wear rates compared to pure PMMA. The lowest friction coefficient and wear rate were achieved at an optimum MWCNT loading of 0.5 wt.%. It was further revealed that the amount of MWCNT reinforcement, average load, and track diameter significantly affect the coefficient of friction (COF) and rate of wear. The COF and wear rate are best at a filler loading of 0.5 wt.%, a 20 Kg load, and 90 mm. The improved tribological performance of the MWCNT-reinforced PMMA nanocomposites can be attributed to the effective transfer of load between the MWCNTs and the PMMA matrix, as well as the reinforcement effect of the MWCNTs. The MWCNTs acted as reinforcing agents, enhancing the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the nanocomposites.

11 March 2023 in International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing (IJIDeM)
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
PDF file
BMBlessing Kudzai Matanda
Blessing Kudzai Matanda
VPVijay Kanjibhai Patel
Vijay Kanjibhai Patel
UJUnnati Joshi
Unnati Joshi
Anand Yagneshbhai JoshiAnand Yagneshbhai Joshi
Anand Yagneshbhai Joshi
AOAnkit D. Oza
Ankit D. Oza
RPRajendra Prasad
Rajendra Prasad