Characterisation of Cu-GnP composite coatings for friction control and wear resistance applications

Abstract

Surface coatings are used to change the characteristics of substrate material and improve its superficial properties based on materials and applications. This paper aimed to characterise and improve different Cu-GnPs coatings realised through electroplating on a copper substrate. Two different kinds of coatings GnPs were produced to realise a superficial self-lubricating effect for friction control applications. The realised coatings were characterised by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and profilometry to evaluate the differences between tribological and morphological properties, check the influence on the wear resistance, and scratch behaviour. The results were compared with the ones obtained with a coating with the same thickness of pure copper and as it is Cu substrate, and showed a higher wear performance of the reinforced coatings. The authors propose that between the friction pair, the GnP establishes a graphitic transfer film that protects the surface from wear with its lubricant effect.