Applications
BAM is commercially available from Newtech Ceramics. Research on BAM properties and potential uses is ongoing at Ames Laboratory, and several applications have been proposed for the material. For example, pistons, seals, and blades on pumps could be coated with BAM or BAM + TiB2 to reduce friction between parts and to increase wear resistance. The reduction in friction would reduce energy use. BAM could also be coated onto cutting tools. The reduced friction would lessen the force necessary to cut an object, extend tool life, and possibly permit increased cutting speeds. Coatings only 2-3 micrometres thick have been found to improve efficiency and reduce wear in cutting tools.[4]
