Capability Summary
ORNL researchers are performing cutting-edge research to understand wear in a variety of systems using multiple classes of materials. This process includes comprehensive tribosystem analysis for understanding failure modes and wear mechanisms based on contact interface mechanical, thermal, and lubrication modeling and worn surface examination. Research seeks innovative solutions through development and application of advanced coatings and lubricants. The effort features well-equipped tribological testing facilities for various wear modes in controlled conditions and state-of-the-art materials characterization.
Equipment & Facilities
More than 15 tribometers operating under various wear modes including abrasion (two-body and three-body), sliding wear, rolling contact fatigue, and fretting in both dry and lubricated conditions in ambient and controlled environments
Surface topographical, mechanical, energy, morphological and compositional characterization
Lubricant rheological, thermal and electrical analysis
Coatings and surface treatments using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and plasma/corona treatment
Nanomaterials synthesis and surface functionalization
Contact
Dr. Jun Qu is a corporate fellow and group leader at ORNL, specializing in surface engineering and tribology. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University. Dr. Qu has received numerous awards, including the 2020 UT-Battelle Distinguished Researcher Award and three R&D 100 awards. His research encompasses advanced lubrication, nanostructured materials, and materials tribology, resulting in over 140 peer-reviewed publications and 11 U.S. patents. He seeks collaborations in advanced materials and manufacturing. For more information on collaborations, contact Dr. Qu at [email protected].