Multi-technique surface analytical studies of automotive anti-wear films

A multi-technique study of model automotive anti-wear films using SEM with quantitative electron microprobe analysis, reflection-absorption IR spectroscopy, SIMS imaging and XPS depth profiling is described. Constrained simulation of the XPS depth profiles allowed model cross-sections of the film structures to be constructed. With zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate as an anti-wear additive, the anti-wear films were found to have a thin inorganic mixed sulphide/oxide layer immediately above the Fe substrate. This formed the base for a thicker Zn-containing polyphosphate-like overlayer. Addition of detergent and dispersant to the lubricant formulation resulted in thicker, more patchy films, with a clearer differentiation between film and substrate.