Diploma and Master Thesis
Measurement of the ZDDP tribofilm thickness using optical interferometer and atomic force microscope
Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings are very promising material for the use in many applications, in particular those operating under the most demanding boundary lubrication conditions, including automotive, where low friction and durability are of extreme importance. In order to introduce DLCs to automotive application, it is necessary that DLC coatings “synchronized” with conventional automotive lubricants where zinc dithiophosphates (ZDDPs) are key additives.
Numerous studies have focused on interactions between various DLCs and lubricants containing ZDDPs, however, the understanding of ZDDP-based lubrication of DLC is still far from understood.
Within this work the emphasis will be on the measurements of ZDDP tribofilm thickness, formed on the contacting surfaces of various DLC coatings (a-C:H and a-C:H:Si), after tribological tests performed under boundary lubrication conditions. The thickness measurement will be performed using two nano-technological tools, optical interferometer and atomic force microscope.
Contact person: Prof. PhD. Mitjan KalinWebpage of the laboratory: https://www.tint.fs.uni-lj.si/
