Enhanced Scratch Resistance of Graphite Coating Using a Polydopamine Adhesive Underlayer
Source abstract
Abstract
Graphite has great potential as a solid lubricant due to its low friction properties, but its poor adhesion to metal substrates limits its durability unless modified. This study explores the use of polydopamine (PDA), a bioinspired adhesive polymer, as an underlayer to enhance the adhesion and scratch resistance of graphite coatings applied to stainless steel (SS) substrates. Progressive load scratch tests were performed using a stainless steel ball counterface under normal loads ranging from 0.5 to 18 N. The PDA-modified coatings demonstrated significantly improved adhesion and durability, withstanding contact pressures up to 1.6 GPa without delamination or failure. In contrast, graphite-only coatings showed early coating loss, severe material transfer, and wide wear tracks. The PDA underlayer enhanced graphite flake compaction, reduced porosity, and preserved structural integrity under high contact stress. These findings demonstrate that PDA reinforcement enables robust, oil-free lubrication suitable for high-stress environments.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Polymer Surface Interaction Studies · Molecular Junctions and Nanostructures · Metal and Thin Film Mechanics
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
Center for Advanced Surface Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
Funding
National Science Foundation
References (37)
Show source-provided references
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