Wear measurement using radionuclide-technique (RNT)

Wear measurement based on the radionuclide-technique (RNT) is a unique way to determine the tribological performance of a system continuously and in real-time. Due to its extremely high resolution and accuracy this method is especially suited to mechanical systems showing low wear rates. When simultaneously to wear, friction is also measured, dynamic processes like running-in can be assessed precisely. This leads to a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of the wear process. The method, therefore, can be used for applied as well as for detailed basic research. This paper deals with the fundamentals of RNT and its application. Although most of the examples come from combustion engine tribology, the findings can be generalized to other areas of mechanical engineering.