The mechanism of nano-network structure formed by friction-induced pozzolanic silicate

Friction transfer film is one of the influencing factors in the evolution of the subsurface microstructure of frictional contact materials. An iron-poor friction transfer film of aluminum-based composites with silicon carbide and pozzolanic silicate particles as the reinforcing phase was investigated utilizing scanning electron microscope, focused ion beams, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The results showed that the friction transfer film contained ultra-fine aluminum, nano-aluminum, broken silicon carbide and silicate particles, as well as in-situ generated andradite and gismondine, which self-assemble into a nano-network structure to support the formation of the friction transfer film. Thermodynamic calculations and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy clarified the formation mechanism of andradite and gismondine.

Automated summary

Friction transfer film is an important factor in the evolution of subsurface microstructure of frictional contact materials. A study was conducted on an iron-poor friction transfer film of aluminum-based composites using various microscopic techniques. The study revealed the presence of ultra-fine aluminum, nano-aluminum, broken silicon carbide and silicate particles, as well as in-situ generated andradite and gismondine, which formed a nano-network structure supporting the friction transfer film. Thermodynamic calculations and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy provided insights into the formation mechanism of andradite and gismondine.