Tribological Performance of Graphene and Graphene Oxide Films as Solid Lubricant Layers on Tool Steel Surfaces

Abstract

Some high productive processes induce a use of effective cooling and lubricating for forming and cutting tools today. Apart of various fluids, foams, oils and emulsions with EP (extreme pressures) additives some very effective means based on graphene or graphene oxide show excellent performance in their solid phase. In this study, a very effective way to enhance the tribological performance of graphene layers on tool steel surfaces is studied. The solid lubricants based on graphene and graphene oxide flakes showed a very good thermal stability, low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance. However, some technological conditions and topographies of surfaces for their successful applications should be made in advance as prerequisites. The research work deals with a high productive forming of metals and improving the mechanical and functional properties of special products. It contributes to finding the optimal internal varnishes, testing their resistance to stress and chemical resistance to the components, understanding all relevant mechanical properties especially of graphene (friction properties, adhesion and abrasion resistance). This research and development is concerned with a production of thin walled products, which will provide future customers with a more durable and safe products and also would have better properties compared to similar products already available on the market.