Abstract
Silicon carbide is a potential material for water lubricated face seal applications. It exhibits enhanced wear behaviour in comparison to standard materials. Tribological exposure is usually accompanied by tribochemical reactions. Chemical changes and corrosion on tribologically influenced surfaces take place at the topmost layer of the component. The study of worn SiC surfaces under water lubrication via TEM and the chemical analysis of lubricants via ICP-OES give new insights into the chemical solubility of tribochemical wear products as well as the mechanical degradation.