Friction Behavior of Ceramic Materials for the Development of Bridge-Bearing Friction Materials

This study evaluates the potential of ceramic materials as friction components in bridge bearings, focusing on durability and frictional behavior under high-load conditions. Bridge bearings traditionally use materials such as PTFE and UHMWPE, which suffer from wear, oxidation, and deformation over time, leading to costly maintenance and frequent replacements. To address these limitations, zirconia-based ceramics were selected for their high hardness, wear resistance, and low friction coefficient. Frictional tests on ceramic samples, including surface roughness adjustments and stress conditions, indicated a stable frictional performance with minimal wear over extended cycles. The results suggest that ceramic materials can maintain consistent frictional properties without lubricant use, potentially reducing bearing maintenance costs and extending their service life. These findings suggest that ceramics could serve as a promising alternative to conventional friction materials in bridge bearings by offering enhanced durability, reduced maintenance requirements, and improved operational reliability.