Optimization of self-lubricating composites: Presentation of a potential technique for optimizing self-lubricating composites

With the current concern for the environment and sustainable development, special importance is being given to energy efficiency, both in production processes and in the application of products. This greater energy efficiency can be achieved through greater control of the tribological properties of materials, i.e. control of phenomena related to friction, lubrication and wear. The production of materials with better tribological properties provides a longer service life and a reduction in costs, either through fewer part changes or machine setups, as well as minimizing the production of polluting gases. In this context, one way to increase the useful life of materials, and thus the energy efficiency of the process, is to control friction and minimize wear by producing self-lubricating components. This book first covers basic knowledge about solid and plasma lubrication, then describes what self-lubricating composites are and what surface enrichment is and how it can be applied to optimize self-lubricating composites.