No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

A particular alumina-PTFE nanocomposite has distinguished itself with unusually large wear reductions at trace filler loadings. Recent studies have shown that the formation of carboxylic acid end groups in humid environments is a critical part of the wear reduction mechanism. This finding has significant implications for the utility of the material for space and high temperature applications. In this paper, wear rate, morphology, composition and chemistry of the wear surfaces were characterized as a function of environmental composition and surface temperature to better understand the environmental limitations of this solid lubricating system and the associated wear resistance mechanisms. The following results were found: (1) ultra-low wear rates were retained with increasing interface temperature up to 100°C, (2) carboxylates were