Current Status of Research on Surface Free Energy Modulation of Solid Lubricating Films and Its Effect on Tribological Properties

doi:10.3901/JME.260121

Abstract

Abstract: Solid lubricant films have been extensively utilized in automotive industries, mechanical manufacturing, and aerospace systems due to their exceptional wear resistance, high load-bearing capacity, and chemical stability. The interfacial wettability and bonding strength between films and substrates can be effectively enhanced through rational regulation of surface energy characteristics, thereby ensuring stable lubrication performance under complex environmental conditions. This optimization significantly extends service lifetimes while minimizing wear-induced failures, ultimately improving the reliability and durability of mechanical components. Existing calculation methodologies for surface free energy, including theoretical approaches (e.g., Fowkes and Owens-Wendt models) and simulation techniques (molecular dynamics and density functional theory), have been systematically summarized to elucidate interfacial physicochemical interactions. Surface energy modulation strategies such as chemical treatments, ion implantation, and elemental doping are comprehensively reviewed, demonstrating their effectiveness in optimizing mechanical and tribological properties through precise control of surface roughness, chemical composition, and process parameters during fabrication. Future research is proposed to focus on resolving critical challenges in molecular-level surface energy gradient evolution. Furthermore, the exploration of multiscale interfacial behaviors and friction-induced energy dissipation mechanisms is emphasized, providing foundational insights for advancing intelligent lubrication systems with adaptive surface energy regulation capabilities.

Key words: solid lubricant films, surface free energy, tribological performance modulation, molecular dynamics simulation, surface treatment

CLC Number:

TG17

HAN Bingyuan, ZHAO Mengna, DU Wenbo, ZHAO Yonglin, YANG Jun, LI Han, ZHU Sheng. Current Status of Research on Surface Free Energy Modulation of Solid Lubricating Films and Its Effect on Tribological Properties[J]. Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 2026, 62(4): 233-248.

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