Tribological Effects of Surface Biomimetic Micro–Nano Textures on Metal Cutting Tools: A Review

Surface microtexture, as a branch of surface engineering, has always been an active research object due to its ability to significantly improve matrix properties. Especially by combining surface microtextures with biomimetics, the concept of surface microtextures has been greatly expanded. The emergence of biomimetic microtextures has also endowed mechanical components with better tribological properties and longer service life. This article reviews the preparation techniques of surface microtextures and summarizes the advantages and limitations of various microtexture preparation techniques. We discuss the morphologies of different biomimetic microtextures and the unique properties they impart to the substrate surface, explore the influence of biomimetic microtexture morphology and size parameters on their tribological properties, and reveal the mechanism of biomimetic microtextures applied to cutting tool surfaces. Finally, the application of biomimetic microtextures in cutting tools is prospected.