Study on the Preparation and Parameter Optimization Method of Graphene Lubricating Coating Based on Mechanical Smearing Method

The purpose of this study is to use a novel process to fabricate graphene on metal surfaces and optimize the preparation parameters to achieve improved friction-reducing and wear-resistant performance. This study involved the preparation of graphene coatings on gold substrates using a specialized smearing device. Characterization was performed using multiple instruments: atomic force microscope, optical microscope, Raman spectrometer, and friction and wear tester. Subsequently, the study investigated the impact of four preparation parameters on the initial macroscopic friction coefficient through ball-on-disk friction experiments. The results indicate that graphene concentration significantly influences friction coefficient, with processing time playing a secondary role. The optimal parameter combinations were determined via theoretical analysis. The surface molecular films obtained after the optimized process parameters were subjected to quality assessments. Key improvements included enhancing uniform graphene distribution and adhesion, and significantly reducing initial friction coefficient and wear rates compared to preoptimization levels. Notably, substantial graphene retention along the wear track formed a uniform protective layer, enhancing both friction reduction and wear resistance.