Finite element modelling of sliding wear in three-dimensional textile hydrogel composites

A finite element model linked with a user-defined subroutine was developed for quantification of sliding wear occurring on the surface of textile-reinforced hydrogel matrix composites. Alumina ceramic ball was used as the counter-face in contact with the composite surface. A linear reciprocating motion under different loads and sliding velocities was used to assess the tribological performance of the composite material. Unit cells of two different three-dimensional weaving patterns along with the bulk matrix were modelled with the dimensions obtained from the actual samples. A close correlation was found between the computational and experimental data, indicating validity of the model. The results gave an insight into the structural behaviour of woven textiles as the major load-carrying constituents of the hydrogel composites.