Friction and Wear Properties Study of Nanoparticles as Additive in Lubrication Oil

This work studies the potential to use nanoparticles as additives in lubrication oil to improve friction and wear properties. The friction coefficient, electrical contact resistance and wear depth are experimentally measuring using a reciprocating sliding tribo-tester at various temperatures, contact pressures and sliding velocities. The test results show that the nanoparticle as additive in base oil can reduce friction and wear by up to 50% in mixed and boundary regimes, but in a commercial engine oil, it has a relatively minor effect. The material properties, size and shape of nanoparticles affect their tribological properties. The mechanisms of friction and wear behavior improved are briefly discussed.