Enhancing Micro-Mechanical Properties and Tribological Characteristics of Agcuni-Mos2-Ws2 Composites Via Sliding Friction Treatment

Abstract

AgCuNi-MoS2-WS2 composites have found extensive application as brush materials for conductive slip rings, owing to their exceptional conductivity and favorable low-friction characteristics. However, prolonged usage leads to a decline in the material's mechanical properties and operational longevity. This study focuses on analyzing the frictional surface mechanical properties and wear resistance of AgCuNi-MoS2-WS2 composite materials using sliding friction treatment (SFT). Through SFT, a wear-resistant layer is induced on the composite's surface. Results demonstrate that SFT treatment led to the formation of an anti-wear film on the material's surface. Nanoindentation measurements revealed a significant 44.9% increase in hardness in the 40 N treated group compared to the untreated group at a 50 mN load. Additionally, nano-scratch tests indicated that the average coefficient of friction for the composites decreased by 16.5%, from 0.236 to 0.197, under a 150 mN load. These findings highlight the feasibility of SFT as a method to enhance the micromechanical properties and friction-wear characteristics of these composites.

Keywords: Silver-based composite materials, sliding friction treatment, Surface strengthening, nano-indentation