Herstellung kompaktierter Graphenschichten zur Reibreduktion auf zyklisch beanspruchten Oberflächen

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Bernd-Arno Behrens; Professor Dr.-Ing. Gerhard Poll
• Subject Area: Primary Shaping and Reshaping Technology, Additive Manufacturing ; Engineering Design, Machine Elements, Product Development
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 567686344

The aim of the project is to investigate a novel process route for the application and simultaneous pre-compaction of graphene platelets for use on tribologically stressed surfaces. The preliminary work has shown that graphene platelets are an effective solid lubricant system, but the adhesion of the layers applied so far is not yet sufficient. Thus, careful handling is required and the application of the currently coated bearings must take place within a few days after application. This is where the intention of the project takes effect, by creating a layer through pre-compacting, which allows normal handling and is resistant for the typical storage periods. A coating process is therefore being developed for the reproducible and economical production of a solid lubricant made from graphene platelets. For this purpose, the basic principles for the design of solid lubricant systems for different load conditions are defined, which lead to improved friction conditions as well as increased component service life compared to previous approaches. In order to be able to assess the properties, it is necessary to determine the influence on service life, taking into account different coating variations. The characterisation of the coatings is carried out across scales from the nanoscale by means of nanoindentation via the microscale by using an oscillating tribometer to macroscopic test bench experiments on real components. The solid lubricants are characterised in detail with regard to their friction and wear behaviour. The physical mechanisms, such as interlocking, tribomutation or diffusion between the solid lubricant and the substrate are still insufficiently researched, so that analyses are carried out on the substrate surfaces. Based on investigations on test specimens, a coating system for the machine element axial cylindrical roller bearing is to be developed.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigator: Dr.-Ing. Florian Pape