Ceramic materials for friction units operating under vacuum

The issues of zirconium dioxide nanostructured crystals application in friction units operating under vacuum are discussed in this article. The effect of alloying crystals with rare-earth elements on crack resistance has been investigated. The optimal amount of alloying elements to achieve the highest crack resistance has been determined. Experiments were carried out on a tribometer of reciprocating motion to determine the antifriction properties of the crystal. The influence of the time of triblogical tests on the change in the coefficient during the sliding of crystals over an alpha titanium alloy is analyzed. The optimal crystal composition for vacuum operation is proposed. Vacuum tests of a bearing consisting of a crystal bush and an alphonated titanium shaft confirmed the functionality of the friction couple. A recommendation is proposed for the application of the studied friction couples in friction units of spacecraft intended for long-term operation in open space.