Tribological behavior of TiAl matrix self-lubricating composites reinforced by multilayer graphene

Abstract

The tribological performance of multilayer graphene-reinforced TiAl matrix self-lubricating composites (GTMSC) is significantly influenced by elastic and plastic deformation during sliding wear. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the dry tribological behaviors of GTMSC at different applied loads. The sliding tribology tests are carried out at 4, 8, 12 and 16 N, respectively. The friction coefficients and wear rates are analyzed under the condition of elastic or plastic deformation. The elastic or plastic deformation is determined by comparing the yield stress with the von Mises stress obtained by the numerical simulation method. The results show that GTMSC exhibits different tribological behaviors under the condition of elastic or plastic deformation. It is found that GTMSC shows excellent tribological performances at 12 N for the elastic deformation, resulting in the formation of anti-friction films. Nevertheless, GTMSC exhibits poor tribological behaviors at 16 N due to the plastic deformation, leading to the destruction of anti-friction films and the formation of cracks.