Micro-tribological properties of hydroxyapatite-based composites in dry sliding

The micro-tribological properties of hydroxyapatite-based composites sliding against alumina balls were investigated by a ball-on-block tribometer. Surface properties of the HA-based composites were measured and examined by using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Running-in behavior during sliding tests was studied as a function of surface properties. The effects of copper fibers, initial surface roughness, and sliding velocity on the friction coefficient and the wear resistance were discussed. Results show that a lubricant layer benefits the tribological properties of the composites. With the increasing of Cu, the lubricant layer is more stable, and resistant to increase of the sliding velocity. At a Cu content of 15%, the wear curve is very stable even at a velocity of 900 rpm. The wear mechanism also changes from abrasive wear to adhesive wear. A model was quoted to describe the relationship between the wear resistant and the load.

► The micro-tribological properties of HA-based composites were investigated.
► The micro-scale test is greatly benefits to the analyses of the wear mechanism.
► A higher speed benefits the formation of the lubricating layer, when high in Cu.
► With increasing Cu, the wear mechanism shift from abrasive wear to adhesive wear.