The tribological properties of carbon fiber reinforced polyimide (PI) composites with different MoS
2 containing sliding against GCr15 steel were comparatively evaluated on an M-2000 model ring-on-block test rig. The wear mechanisms
were also comparatively discussed, based on scanning electron microscopic examination of the worn surface of the PI composites
and the transfer film formed on the counterpart. It was found that small incorporation of MoS
2 was harmful to the improvement of friction and wear behaviors of carbon fiber reinforced PI composites. However, it was found
that the increasing filler of MoS
2 significantly improved the wear resistance and decreased the friction coefficient of carbon fiber reinforced PI composites.
It was also found that the tribological properties of MoS
2 and short carbon fiber reinforced PI composites were closely related with the sliding condition such as sliding rate and
applied load.