Nanoscale Study of Antiwear Tribofilm Growth Using In Situ Atomic Force Microscopy Under Lubricated Contacts

We dedicate the current book chapter to highlighting the emerging nanoscale approach in tribology research, with a focus on the investigation of zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP)-based antiwear tribofilms. Leveraging the in situ Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) technique, researchers have gained fundamental insights into the intricacy of tribochemical mechanisms within buried lubricated sliding contacts. The chapter covers a comprehensive overview of the complex tribological response of ZDDP at the sliding interface and its investigation through a detailed discussion on the AFM-based technique. Moreover, it reviews the profound influence of contact stresses, temperature, and substrate chemistry on tribofilm growth kinetics. It further incorporates the structural and chemical characterization-based inferences to deepen the understanding of tribofilm properties. The chapter underscores the unique ability of the technique in conjunction with the phenomena to create nanoscale structures and controlled imprints, emphasizing its significance in advancing tribology research and beyond.