Chemical aspects of wear of alumina ceramics

In our investigation, the effects of the tribochemically-induced dissolution of alumina ceramics and modulation of near-surface forces (surface charge) within the tribocontact were studied. The wear and friction behaviors of alumina were investigated using a reciprocating sliding test in different chemical environments. The samples for the tests were hemispherical pins and plates of polished alumina, both prepared by a near-net-shaping method.

The sliding tests were conducted in water-based liquids with different pH values or with the addition of a polyelectrolyte to control the surface charge at solid surfaces. The coefficient of friction was continuously recorded during the tests and the wear-loss was subsequently determined for all samples. The results show a significant effect of the chemical agents on the coefficient of friction as well as on the material-removal rate in different aqueous media. The results are discussed in terms of the chemical and electrochemical properties of the materials in the tribocontact.