Behavior of CuO as solid lubricant inside ZTA matrices

• DOI: 10.1063/5.0213553
• Publication Date: 2024-08-02T14:09:37Z
• Authors: Bipin Kumar Singh; Amit Kumar; Robert Cep; Ajay Kumar; Ashwini Kumar; Namrata Dogra; K. Logesh
• Keywords: Physics; QC1-999; 0103 physical sciences; 01 natural sciences

This investigation delves into the behavior of copper oxide (CuO) as a solid lubricant inside zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) ceramic composites. The starts with preparation ZTA through co-precipitation followed by powder metallurgy to develop CuO (1.5 wt. %)/ZTA In all cases, hot isotactic pressing is applied for densification. fully densified samples are thoroughly mirror-polished investigate mechanical and tribological properties. A 1.8% reduction in micro-hardness 6% improvement fracture toughness observed incorporation matrices. analysis reveals that presence ionic at grain boundary leads formation copper-rich phases, causing decrease hardness. However, softer particles contribute crack bridging deflection, enhancing toughness. Subsequent properties highlights positive influence phases acting secondary component within matrix. significant enhancement 39.34% Coefficient Friction (COF) achieved incorporating can be attributed patchy layer smearing squeezing actions on wear debris during sliding. uniform results smoother more polished surfaces, leading an both COF specific rate. Further various phenomena contributing surface wear, including pullout particles, micro-fracture, high abrasions, laminar removal grains. Overall, introduction proves beneficial, showcasing improved developed composites, application dies, inserts, sparkplugs, etc.