Frictional Properties of a Composite Surface: Titania on Glass

Abstract

Partial coatings of titania (anatase) on glass, at surface coverages as low as 10%, can significantly reduce the surface damage which occurs when glass surfaces are rubbed together. The effectiveness of the coating depends upon the presence of a boundary lubricant on the uncoated portions of the glass surface. It is proposed that increased resistance to surface abrasion is obtained because the titania-coated regions support the rubbing surfaces and thereby prevent the pressure on the uncoated areas from becoming great enough to break down the boundary lubricant layer.