Sliding friction and wear characteristics of Al2O3-Al nanocomposites

Qu Jun, An Linan, Peter J. Blau

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

    19 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Ceramic particles, such as SiC and Al2O3, have been used to reinforce Al alloys to improve their strength and wear-resistance. However, previous studies mainly dealt with either relatively large hard particles (from tens to hundreds of micrometers in diameter) or nanometer-sized particles with low volume fractions (a few percent). In this study, near-fully-dense (97-99%) Al2-Al nanocomposites with higher particle concentrations (5-15 vol%) were processed using mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing. Transmission electron microscopy revealed very high dislocation density in aluminum matrix for these Al2O3-Al nanocomposites. High strength (σ0.2%: ∼500 MPa) and encouraging tribological properties have been observed. The Al2O 3(15 vol%)-Al nanocomposites performed unexpectedly well when sliding against 52100 bearing steel. The friction coefficient of the nanocomposite was 55%, 37%, and 55% lower and the wear-resistance was 1500X, 30X, and 120X higher than those of pure Al, cast Al 319 alloy, and conventional Al2O 3-Al composites, respectively. Wear scar examination showed severe adhesive wear on the conventional Al alloy and micro-composite surfaces; however, only mild abrasive wear was observed on the nanocomposite surfaces. It was observed that the particle concentration had to exceed a critical level (10-15 vol%) to exhibit superior wear-resistance, even though a lower level (e.g. 5 vol%) resulted in a significantly improved tensile strength.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationProceedings of STLE/ASME International Joint Tribology Conference, IJTC 2006
    StatePublished - 2006
    EventSTLE/ASME International Joint Tribology Conference, IJTC 2006 - San Antonio, TX, United States
    Duration: Oct 23 2006Oct 25 2006

    Publication series

    NameProceedings of STLE/ASME International Joint Tribology Conference, IJTC 2006
    Volume2006

    Conference

    ConferenceSTLE/ASME International Joint Tribology Conference, IJTC 2006
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CitySan Antonio, TX
    Period10/23/0610/25/06

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