Journal Papers Published by the Rubber Research Group

"Modelling Friction and Abrasion in Rubber"

Author(s): J.J.C. Busfield

Journal: Constitutive Models for Rubber VI edited by G. Heinrich, M. Kaliske, A. Lion & S. Reese, pp. 287-293.

The exact mechanisms present during frictional sliding and abrasion of an elastomer over a hard asperity are discussed. It is widely accepted that the two principal factors in rubber friction result from the adhesion and hysteresis behaviour of the elastomer. Through modelling and measurement it has been shown an additional geometric factor contributes significantly to the frictional force. This geometric term is thought likely to make a contribution to friction experienced in applications such as the sliding of tyres over a road surface. Also, the abrasion process has been measured and modelled using a calculated strain energy release rate for a specific type of sliding contact and this has been used to compare both measured and calculated abrasion rates. The correlation is good for a wide range of conditions and different materials and this analysis helps explain why some materials are more abrasion resistant than others.