Korrosionsverhalten von Siliziumkarbid in Gleitbeanspruchung unter Wasserschmierung

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 take place in the topmost layer of the component. The study of worn SiC surfaces under water lubrication and the chemical analysis of lubricants via ICP-OES allow conclusions to be drawn regarding the chemical solubility of tribochemical wear products ass well as the mechanical degradation. This study demonstrates how TEM foils prepared by FIB and investiigated by means of HR-TEM, EELS and EDX allow a deeper understanding of the tribochemical wear process.