Formation Factors of the Surface Layer Generated from Serpentine as Lubricant Additive and Composite Reinforcement

Serpentine is usually added into oil for tribological applications. To explore the performance and mechanism of serpentine, three different kinds of pins were tested under lubricated/dry sliding conditions. The result shows that a surface layer with an excellent anti-friction property was formed on the surface of worn steel. The binding ability between the matrix elements in the wear-induced transition zone and the unsaturated bonds released by serpentine is the key factor to form the anti-friction surface layer. Meanwhile, the hardness of the pairing material and frictional contact time determine the thickness and surface roughness of the anti-friction surface layer. In all, this work is hoped to be helpful in designing and researching a new industrial anti-friction material which can be used for dry sliding conditions.