Mechanisms of wear of elastomers under direct impact of abrasive particles

Abstract

The possibility of simulation of a single impact of an abrasive particle on the surface of an elastomer is shown. Experimental study of the direct impact has made it possible to distinguish two fracture mechanisms responsible for the wear of rubbers. Fracture of the rubber surface occurs via the delamination of thin destructed rubber flakes. Under more severe conditions of loading, cracks appear, propagate, and merge, which is followed by spalling of fragments of the material.