Improving wear resistance of aluminum by hydrophobic sol-gel-derived TiO2 film

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to increase wear resistance of aluminum. Design/methodology/approach The authors have studied the ways to improve the tribological performance of aluminum by assembling stearic acid on aluminum coated by sol-gel-derived TiO2 film. The samples were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, contact angle measurements and a macro friction and wear tester. Findings Enhanced wear resistance was clearly obtained after functionalization of TiO2 film on aluminum by stearic acid. Originality/value The relevant results might be helpful for guiding the surface modification of aluminum devices in industrial applications.