Sliding friction induced atom diffusion in the deformation layer of 0.45% C steel rubbed against Tin alloy

•The dry sliding friction-induced deformation layer can be divided into two layers.•The cementite particles of about 200 nm were observed in worn surface of the disc.•The pin atoms diffused into the friction-induced deformation layer of the discs.

Evolution of microstructure and compositions in worn surface and subsurface of 45 (0.45 mass% carbon) steel disc slid against tin-alloy-pin was analyzed by SEM, TEM and SIMS. The mechanical alloying layer and plastic deformation layer were formed in the sliding friction-induced deformation layer (SFIDL) of 45 steel. Ultra-refine and nano grains were detected in the worn surface layer. Elements of Sn, Cu and Sb, originated from the mating tin-alloy-pin, with diffusion depth of 35 μm, 11 μm and 4 μm, respectively, were detected in its SFIDL. Mechanisms accelerating atom diffusion in SFIDL were subsequently propounded.