Sn-containing Si3N4-based composites for adaptive excellent friction and wear in a wide temperature range

Ceramic design based on reducing friction and wear-related failures in moving mechanical systems has gained tremendous attention due to increased demands for durability, reliability and energy conservation. However, only few materials can meet these requirements at high temperatures. Here, we designed and prepared a Sn-containing Si3N4-based composite, which displayed excellent tribological properties at high temperatures. The results showed that the friction coefficient and wear rate of the composites were reduced to 0.27 and 4.88 x 10(6) mm(3) N-1 m(-1) in air at 800 degrees C. The wear mechanism of the sliding pairs at different temperatures was revealed via detailed analyses of the worn surfaces. In addition, the tribo-driven graphitization was detected on the wear surfaces and in the wear debris, and the carbon phase was identified by SEM, TEM, and Raman spectrum.

Automated summary

Ceramic design focused on reducing friction and wear-related failures in high temperature moving mechanical systems led to the development of a Sn-containing Si3N4-based composite with excellent tribological properties. The wear mechanism and tribo-driven graphitization were revealed through detailed analyses of worn surfaces, showing reduced friction coefficient and wear rate in air at 800 degrees C.