Tribological Properties of Metal Ion-Coordinated Self-Assembled Graphene Oxide Coatings

In this study, a series of GO self-assembled coatings were controllably prepared under the coordination of different metal ions (Li⁺, Ca²⁺, Al³⁺), and the friction and wear properties of the GO coatings were evaluated in atmospheric, nitrogen, and vacuum environments.

Meanwhile, the regulation mechanism of the interlayer bonding of the GO coatings was explored. It was found that the cross-linking effect between metal ions and GO can improve the tribological properties of the coatings, and the valence state of metal cations will directly affect the mode and magnitude of the cross-linking effect. The experimental results show that introducing metal ions can significantly increase the bonding force between the lamellae, reduce the deterioration of oxygen-containing functional groups on GO, passivate surface defects, and improve tribological properties.