Microstructure and friction behavior of polymeric composite coatings on alumina/aluminum composite

Co-continuous alumina/aluminum-based composites with excellent physical and mechanical properties offer great potentials for lightweight, wear resistant, and high temperature applications. The development of suitable coating materials will provide low coefficient of friction to extend life under different environments for aerospace applications. In this study, carbon nanofiber reinforced polymeric composite thin films were spin coated onto the alumina/aluminum composites. Bis A polycarbonate, biphenyl ethertriphenylphosphine oxide (BPETPP-E) and fluoro ethertriphenylphosphine oxide (6FETPP-E) were chosen as the matrix materials for comparison. Tribological evaluation of alumina/aluminum composites with and without coatings was performed using pin-on-disc wear tests in lab air condition. The morphology and wear tracks on the composite discs and material transfer to the steel balls were examined.