Ultralow friction PTFE/PEEK heterolayer: A new solid lubrication approach toward simplicity

Abstract Tribological applications of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are often limited by technological complexity to overcome its poor wear resistance. Here, a PTFE/polyetheretherketone (PEEK) heterolayer (HL) was proposed and evaluated as new solid lubrication solution. Pin-on-disk tribometry found the lowest friction coefficient ( μ ) 0.031 ultralow for PEEK/HL under typical conditions. The HL surpasses those state-of-the-art polymeric coatings/composites at least 200%, approaches that highly lubricated interfaces. Mechanistic investigations revealed multi-length physical chemical heterogeneity best facilitates tribofilm with high subsurface stability surface instability. simplicity robustness HL’s lubricity make it promising type toward greater reliability longevity.