Friction and wear performance of titanium alloy against tungsten carbide lubricated with phosphate ester

This work investigated the lubricating and anti-wear properties of some water-based additives on titanium alloys. It was found that nonylphenol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate ester (PPE) solution can decrease friction coefficient and wear rate. The morphology of worn surface was observed and the mechanism was investigated. The adsorption of phosphate to titanium through P-O-Ti covalent bond plays the most important role. This steady film prevents direct contact of the ball with the disc, thus a relatively low friction coefficient and wear rate occurring. This research indicates that PPE is a candidate additive in developing cutting fluid of titanium alloys.