FIB and TEM characterization of subsurfaces of an Al–Si alloy (A390) subjected to sliding wear

The material layers underneath the worn surfaces of a hypereutectic Al–Si alloy (A390) subjected to dry sliding wear in air and argon atmospheres were characterized. The samples were tested at a constant load of 10N and a sliding velocity of 1m/s using a block-on-ring tribometer. The counterface material was a SAE 52100 bearing steel. The wear rate of the alloy tested in an argon atmosphere (3.05×10−5mm3/m) was 10 times lower compared to that …