Investigation of tribological behaviours of graphene-coated journal bearing

Abstract

In this study, we investigated macro- and nano-scale tribological behaviours of single-layer graphene on steel parts. Single layer graphene was synthesized via Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) on copper foil and then transferred onto commercial journal bearing that has a considerable rough surface. Nanotribological tests were carried out by using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) under loadings differs from 5 to 30 nN, and macrotribological experiments were done using pin on disc type tribometer at three different loads of 10, 15 and 30 N within 90, 120 and 250 s sliding cycle durations. The results exhibited that graphene effectively diminish the wear rate of substrate material, whereas it has no significant improvement in coefficient of friction due to high asperity of surface. The worn surface analyses were characterized by scanning electron microscopy for the evaluation of wear mechanisms. © 2018, © 2018 Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.