Effects of MoS2 on Tribological Properties and Mechanically Mixed Layer of Al Matrix Composites

Al matrix composites containing MoS2 at weight fractions in the range of 0%, 3%, 10%, were fabricated by hot press method, respectively. The effect of MoS2 on tribological properties and mechanically mixed layer of Al matrix composites were investigated on a pin-on-disc tester at load of 20~50N and sliding speed of 0.23~0.69m/s. Worn surfaces and mechanically mixed layer of composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy(SEM). Results indicate that the hardness and compression strength of composite with 3% content of MoS2 has a little higher than that of composite with 0% content of MoS2, but the hardness and compression strength of composite with 10% content of MoS2 were dropped sharply. With the increase of MoS2 content, the composite with 10%MoS2 has a low and stable coefficient at load of 30~50N. The wear rate of composite with 10%MoS2 at load of 50N and sliding speed of 0.69m/s has a sharp increase and there wasn’t mechanically mixed layer(MML) present; the composites at load of 30N and sliding speed of 0.69m/s have low and stable wear rates and there were MML present with wavy shape across entire wear track.