Tribology of Amorphous Alloys Formed With Ion Beams

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe changes in friction and wear properties (i.e., tribology) of steels due to thin surface alloys formed by ion beams are surveyed, and considered in light of their microstructures. Amorphous alloys containing both Ti and C are found to give superior performance in comparison to alloys with N, B, C, P or Ti. All the amorphous layers reduce friction, but the duration of benefits and wear resistance at high loads vary with composition. By examining similar amorphous alloys with Ti alone or C alone, the critical roles played by each in resisting wear are demonstrated. Amorphous alloys with Ti and C appear to be quite hard.