Optimization of micro/nano ceramic 3D-printing process for scale-textured surfaces for enhanced tribological performance

Increasing the texture complexity of high-performance surfaces can enhance their antifriction properties by altering their distribution and retention of lubricating oils. When a fluid flows through a fish-scale texture, a lubricating layer is formed, effectively reducing friction. In this study, a bionic fish-scale structure is proposed, and ceramic components are fabricated and analyzed using micro/nano additive-manufacturing technology. First, the effects of various parameters on the antifriction performance of the fish-scale texture under hydrodynamic lubrication conditions are investigated. Then, the pressure distribution of the oil film—including both positive and negative pressures—is simulated by adjusting parameters such as the angle α, ratio of textured area to total surface area, and depth of the fish-scale texture. The results indicate that for a textured area that accounts for 20 % of the total surface, texture depth of 150 μm, and angle α of 30°, the pressure differential reaches its maximum. Finally, based on the optimized parameters, the designed fish-scale structure is fabricated using micro/nano ceramic three-dimensional-printing technology. Friction and wear tests are conducted on the sintered samples. The experimental results align well with the simulation data, indicating that the structure can reduce the friction coefficient by approximately 15 %, thereby significantly improving the antifriction performance. This study provides a valuable reference for the surface engineering of other high-performance functional structures.