Ion energy-induced nanoclustering structure in a-C:H film for achieving robust superlubricity in vacuum

• DOI: 10.1007/s40544-021-0555-8
• Publication Date: 2022-01-05T07:03:00Z
• Authors: Qingyuan Yu; Xinchun Chen; Chenhui Zhang; Chenxi Zhang; Wenli Deng; Yinhui Wang; Jianxun Xu; Wei Qi
• Keywords: Amorphous carbon; Carbon fibers; Ultra-high vacuum

Abstract Hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a-C:H) films are capable of providing excellent superlubricating properties, which have great potential serving as self-lubricating protective layer for mechanical systems in extreme working conditions. However, it is still a huge challenge to develop a-C:H achieving robust superlubricity state vacuum. The main obstacle derives from the lack knowledge on influencing mechanism deposition parameters bonding structure and its relation their self-lubrication performance. Aiming at finding optimized energy revealing superlubricity, series highly-hydrogenated were synthesized with appropriate ion energy, systematic tribological experiments structural characterization conducted. results highlight pivotal role film composition, nanoclustering structure, state, determine properties surface passivation ability hence performance lowest friction coefficient 0.006 coupled wear rate emerges when just beyond penetration threshold subplantation. combined growth process chemisorption subsurface implantation key acquire stiff network high volume hydrogen incorporation, enables near-frictionless sliding surface. These findings can provide guidance towards more effective manipulation space application.