Preparation and tribological properties of copper matrix solid self-lubricant composites reinforced with NbSe₂ sheets

Different mass fractions of NbSe₂/Cu composite were made from NbSe₂ sheets by repressing and resintering process of powder metallurgy. Physical and tribological property and microstructure of NbSe₂/Cu composites were investigated. The results show that the friction coefficient and wear rate are greatly reduced by the addition of the NbSe₂ sheets. This is due to the enrichment of NbSe₂ in the surface of the composite and the forming of a solid lubricating film by the combined effect of frictional heat and extrusion. When the NbSe₂ sheets are coated with copper, the interfacial combination between NbSe₂ and Cu-matrix is improved and thus the composite will have better physical and tribological property.