The tribological behavior of Zr-Cu-Al bulk metallic glass under dry sliding, deionized water and sea water

Purpose This study aims to research the influence of medium (dry sliding, deionized water and sea water) on the tribological behavior of (Zr100, Cu100)95Al5 bulk metallic glasses (BMGs). Design/methodology/approach The tribological behavior of Zr-Cu-Al BMGs against alumina disk under dry sliding, deionized water and sea water had been investigated on a pin-on-disk tester. The effect of different media on the tribological behavior of Zr-Cu-Al BMGs had been studied by analyzing the friction coefficients and wear rates, the surface roughness of alumina disk, the morphology of Zr-Cu-Al BMGs worn surface, alumina disk and wear debris. Then, the composition and the formation mechanism of friction film were studied in detail. Finally, the synergy effect of mechanical wear and corrosion was revealed. Findings The medium affected the tribological properties of Zr-Cu-Al BMG significantly. The boundary lubricating and cooling effect were revealed in deionized water and sea water, resulting in the friction coefficient reducing. During sliding in sea water, besides, the corrosive effect was exhibited. The linear corrosion products composed of oxides and chlorides were formed on the worn surfaces of Zr-Cu-Al BMG. The synergy effect of mechanical wear and corrosion played an important part in increasing the wear rate of Zr-Cu-Al BMG in sea water. Originality/value The effect of different media on the tribological behavior of Zr-Cu-Al BMGs researched in this paper provides some valuable information relative to the tribocorrosion behavior, which is required for its application. Simultaneously, the study provides ideas for the analysis of tribocorrosion behavior.