Abrasive wear on ceramic materials obtained from solid residuals coming from mines

In this study, the performance of new ceramic materials that were subjected to dry abrasive wear was analyzed. This research was conducted to know the behaviour of these materials in relation to the wear process. The types of composites used in this study could have useful applications such as coatings to protect mechanical components, including engine pistons and steam generators. These new materials are usually obtained from solid residuals coming from mines. These are known as "jales" (náhualt derivated from xalli, it means sand). The abrasion testing was performed in accordance with ASTM G65-94 standard. Wear rates (Q) and wear coefficients (k) were also obtained. The surface of the specimens was examined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The wear mechanisms observed commonly on the specimens were parallel deep grooves and ploughing and cutting action. The results indicated that the ceramics that consisted of volcanic ashes and sand mixed with clay exhibited a higher abrasion resistance compared with the materials that were combined with epoxy resin.