Effect of CuO on self-lubricating properties of ZrO2(Y2O3)–Mo composites at high temperatures

In this paper, ZrO2 matrix high-temperature self-lubricating composites with addition of CuO as lubricant were prepared using a hot-pressing method by tailoring the content of CuO. The wear and friction behaviour of the composites were investigated from 700 °C to 1000 °C. The composites sliding against an Al2O3 ceramic ball exhibited excellent self-lubricating and anti-wear properties at high temperatures. The low friction and wear mechanisms were investigated in detail.