Dry sliding wear behavior of AM50B magnesium alloy

• There is a lack of know-know on the fundamental wear behaviour of magnesium alloys.
• Sliding velocity range of 0.1–1 m s−1 and normal force range 10–250 N were tested.
• Wear rates, friction coefficient and surface oxidation has been calculated.
• Worn surface were analysed by SEM/EDS techniques.
• Wear mechanisms map has been proposed for the AM50B Mg alloy.

Wear behaviour of AM50B magnesium alloy was tested using pin-on-disc configuration with carbon steel discs as counterpart on dry-sliding conditions. Wear rates and friction coefficients were measured in a sliding velocity range of 0.1–1 m s−1 and normal force range of 10–250 N. Worn surfaces were analysed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDS) to define the main wear mechanisms. Abrasion, adhesion, delamination, oxidation, and plastic and severe plastic deformation were observed. Wear mechanism map was proposed. Oxidation and abrasion mechanisms dominated at the lowest sliding velocities and loads. Increasing load and speed led to a combination of oxidation, delamination and adhesion. Plastic deformation and severe plastic deformation were detected for the highest applied load and sliding speeds.