Development of Graphene Related Solid Lubricant Coating

Sammanfattning

Tribological coatings are important for improving performance and service life byreducing friction and wear in mechanical systems across several industries. Makingcomposite coatings that balance tribological and electrical properties can improvemechanical strength, durability, and electrical performance with positive effects onenergy efficiency and material use.Graphene is known for its good structural, electrical, thermal, and lubricationproperties. One of its derivatives- reduced graphene oxide (RGO), has a similarstructure and properties. In this work, the aim was to make composite coatingsby combining the ability of graphene- related materials with polymers and metals.RGO- polymer composite coatings were prepared using direct application and dipcoating methods. In parallel, RGO- copper (Cu) multilayer composites were developedusing surface modification, direct application, and electroplating processes.Among the samples, RGO- Cu coatings showed better overall results. Coatings withone to five layers were made on steel and copper substrates.Tribological, electrical, adhesion tests were carried out on the samples and characterizationtechniques used to analyze the properties. RGO outer layers on steelshowed good friction performance but were electrically insulating. Cu outer layersgave better electrical properties but inferior wear properties. RGO layer interfacialbonding over Cu coating seems weak.