Lubrication and friction behavior of piezoelectric materials under interface adsorption effect

Abstract This study investigated the interfacial lubrication and friction behavior of piezoelectric materials. Two types of water-based lubrication solutions containing anionic and cationic surfactants were used in friction experiments with varying rotational speeds and loads. This study revealed that lubricant molecules adsorb onto the electrode solid–liquid interface, resulting in distinct friction behaviors. The piezoelectric positive electrode adsorbs anions, while the negative electrode surface adsorbs cations, forming a thicker adsorption film that reduces friction compared to a non-piezoelectric interface. Furthermore, the study reveals that the coupling of mechanical force, electrical effects, and surface adsorption influences lubrication performance. This study provides a method for enhancing lubrication performance in smart materials, with significant engineering applications.