Development of a novel in-situ technique for hydrogen uptake evaluation from a lubricated tribocontact

Hydrogen in mechanical elements can be generated as a result of tribochemical reactions during surface-rubbing causing steel embrittlement. In this study, a new modified Devanathan-Stachurski setup in which a tribological charging cell is incorporated was developed in order to provide an online measurement of hydrogen permeation through steel from a lubricated metal-metal contact. This new technique enables the study of the hydrogen source and the rate of its permeation in a tribocontact. The effect of water contamination and the presence of conventional anti-wear and friction modifier additives in polyalphaolefin base oil on tribologically-induced hydrogen uptake were investigated. The results indicate significant influence of water on hydrogen uptake. The ZDDP anti-wear has promoted hydrogen uptake from the tribocontact. Whilst MoDTC friction modifier reduced the hydrogen permeation.