Simultaneous optimization of mechanical and biotribological properties of carbon fibers reinforced hydroxyapatite-polymer composites by constructing networked Si₃N₄ nanowires

Carbon fibers reinforced hydroxyapatite-polymer composites (CHP) has greatly promising applications in the field of artificial joint replacement, where the integration of splendid biotribological properties and mechanical strength are demanded. Herein, silicon nitride nanowires (SN) with networked structure are introduced to CHP and used as reinforcement materials to form SN reinforced CHP (SN–CHP). The results show that SN with networked structure can provide more deposition sites for hydroxyapatite (HA), increase the cohesion of polymer matrix and strengthen the fiber/polymer interface bonding. With the introduction of SN, mechanical and biotribological properties of SN-CHP exhibit obvious promotion. The shear and compressive strengths of SN-CHP are increased by 28.1 % ± 8.7 % and 28.4 ± 3.8 % compared with CHP, respectively. Furthermore, the friction coefficient and wear rate are reduced by 23.9 % ± 4.3 % and 28.9 % ± 3.8 %, respectively. This work offers a perspective for the fabrication of composite materials with superior cohesion and interface bonding, showing promising applications in artificial joint.