Synthesis and tribological properties of copper matrix solid self‐lubricant composites reinforced with NbSe2 nanoparticles

Abstract

AbstractCopper matrix solid self‐lubricant composites were prepared by powder metallurgy route using copper powders and NbSe2 nanofiber or sheet. The tribological properties of the as‐prepared materials were estimated by a ball‐on‐disc on UMT‐2 multi‐function friction and wear tester under dry conditions in a normal laboratory atmosphere (55‐70% relative humidity, 15‐25 °C). The NbSe2 nanofiber or sheet was very effective in improving the tribological properties of the composites. It is found that the composites with 15 wt.% NbSe2 nanofibers showed a very low coefficient of friction of 0.1487. Furthermore, the value levels of electrical resistivity for the composites with different contents of NbSe2 nanofiber reached to 10‐6 Ω.cm. When the NbSe2 content was high enough, a continuous supply of NbSe2 nanofiber to the tribo‐surface is an important precondition and the benefit of its anti‐friction properties for the copper matrix composites. This behavior is related that little NbSe2 is reacted with the Cu‐base in the sintering process, although there needs enough NbSe2 nanofibers as solid lubricants; too much NbSe2 nanofibers will decrease the intensity of the composites, reducing the wear resistance. So adding the appropriate contents of NbSe2 nanofiber to the composites play an important role in anti‐friction and wear resistance. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)