The Lubrication of Gold Surfaces by Plasma-Deposited Thin Films of Fluorocarbon Polymer

Thin films of fluorocarbon material have been deposited on gold-plated substrates by the technique of RF-induced plasma polymerization of fluorocarbon monomer gases. The deposited films have been evaluated for suitability as contact lubricants by determining the friction and wear characteristics of the substrates in the presence and absence of the film and by a comparison to substrates coated with microcrystalline wax, a typical contact lubricant currently in use. The data were obtained using a rider/flat wear tester. Electrical conduction through the films has been characterized by contact resistance measurements. The results show that there exists a range of film thicknesses that provide a significant improvement in friction and wear relative to unlubricated substrates at a low ohmic contact resistance. The microcrystalline wax, however, provided the best protection.