Effect of high-energy Xe ion implantation on tribological properties of chromium under wet conditions

Abstract

This paper presents the results of tribological wear resistance tests on pure chromium subjected to xenon ion implantation with an energy of 160 MeV. Chromium is a very popular engineering material used in many industries, including aerospace, automotive, power generation and electronics. It owes its popularity to its resistance to high temperatures, corrosion, and high mechanical strength. High-energy implantation of heavy ions causes a significant amount of radiation damage, which affects the crystalline structure of the material's surface layer and thus changes its mechanical properties. This is especially important in space and nuclear power applications. The research was aimed at demonstrating changes in frictional wear resistance as a result of exposure to Xe ions at different doses per unit area. The research was conducted using the pin-on-disc method in an aqueous environment. A statistically significant decrease in tribological wear of pure chromium subjected to Xe ion implantation with an energy of 160 MeV was observed.