Fundamental Research on Tribology
Abstract
A multidisciplinary program of basic research was conducted with emphasis on potential ways of reducing friction and wear under conditions of boundary lubrication. A special aim was the development of lubricating systems for applications at temperatures above 300 C. Both experimental and theoretical (computer modeling) approaches were used in parallel. Among the most important results were: Stable carbonaceous gases or vapors (ethylene, benzene propane, propanol) form a lubricating carbon deposit on nickel-containing steels at temperatures above 350 C. Under water fresh metal surfaces are exposed providing continuous catalytic regeneration of the solid lubricant as long as the gas is supplied. The same concept also works on ceramic surfaces such as silicon nitride, Sialon, silicon carbide or zirconia. However, the nature of the carbon (possibly cracking-type coke) is spectroscopically different. Friction coefficients as low as 0.02 and negligible wear could be achieved. A parallel ultrahigh vacuum SEM study showed catalytic carbon deposition on nickel from ethylene in the same temperature range where the friction coefficient was low. New computer models of polymer friction in the temperature-controlled region and of EHD by fracture mechanics were devised.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 14, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA232446
Entities
People
- James L. Lauer
Organizations
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute