Fox-Rabinovich, G. , Kovalev, A. , Veldhuis, S. , Yamamoto, K. , ENDRINO ARMENTEROS, JOSÉ LUIS, Gershman, I. S. , Rashkovskiy, A. , Aguirre, M. H. , Wainstein, D. L.
Si
Sci Rep
Article
Científica
5.228
2.034
05/03/2015
000350453200007
2-s2.0-84924350788
Atomic-scale, tribo-ceramic films associated with dissipative structures formation are discovered under extreme frictional conditions which trigger self-organization. For the first time, we present an actual image of meta-stable protective tribo-ceramics within thicknesses of a few atomic layers. A mullite and sapphire structure predominates in these phases. They act as thermal barriers with an amazing energy soaking/dissipating capacity. Less protective tribo-films cannot sustain in these severe conditions and rapidly wear out. Therefore, a functional hierarchy is established. The created tribo-films act in synergy, striving to better adapt themselves to external stimuli. Under a highly complex structure and non-equilibrium state, the upcoming generation of adaptive surface engineered nano-multilayer materials behaves like intelligent systems - capable of generating, with unprecedented efficiency, the necessary tribo-films to endure an increasingly severe environment.