Tribological properties of polyimide coating filled with solvent-free covalent carbon quantum dots nanofluids

Novel organic coatings were developed by incorporating solvent-free covalent carbon quantum dots nanofluids (CQDs NFs) into a polyimide (PI) matrix. The tribological properties of CQDs NFs/PI composite coatings were
tested using a ball-on-disk tribometer, revealing that even a low loading of CQDs NFs significantly improved tribological performance of PI. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and nanoindentation tests showed that CQDs NFs restricted PI molecular chain movement, enhancing mechanical properties. Additionally, CQDs NFs promoted the formation of stable transfer films on steel surfaces, improving wear resistance. This study confirms CQDs NFs’ effectiveness in modifying PI composite coatings’ friction and wear properties.