A novel approach to wear reduction of micro-components by synthesis of carbon nanotube-silver composite coating

A novel type of solid coating that is composed of carbon nanotube (CNT) and Ag dual-layer composite has been developed to reduce the wear of silicon based components. Experimental results showed that by optimizing the composite design and synthesis process the wear properties could be significantly improved. It was postulated that Ag served to provide low shear stress at the sliding interface and also distribute the contact stress that led to relatively low friction. Furthermore, it was found that pores of the CNT structure served as an anchor that retained the Ag material that was otherwise readily detached from the substrate.