Formation of Friction Layers in Graphene-Reinforced TiAl Matrix Self-Lubricating Composites

The friction layer structure has been proved to be formed during severe plastic deformation and markedly improves the tribological properties of material. The dry friction and wear performance of graphene-reinforced TiAl matrix self-lubricating composites (GTMSC) at different sliding velocities are systematically researched. GTMSC show the best tribological properties and special friction layer structure containing a wear-induced layer and a grain refinement layer with a nanocrystalline (NC) structure under surface after sliding at a sliding speed of 1.1 m/s. Nanoindentation results show that the grain refinement layer has a higher hardness and elastic modulus than the wear-induced layer. This special microstructure of friction layers beneath the surface after sliding leads to a low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance of GTMSC. Moreover, it is deduced that the appearance of an NC structure results in hardening of the material. The formation mechanisms of friction layers are researched in detail. It can be concluded that the formation of a wear-induced layer results from frictional heat and fracture of the counterpart. The formation of a grain refinement layer is due to severe plastic deformation and dynamic recrystallization. Severe plastic deformation results in the formation of an NC structure and dynamic recrystallization leads to grain refinement.