Synergistic lubrication of MoS₂ particles with different morphologies in liquid paraffin

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the synergistic lubrication of MoS₂ particles with different morphologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The synergistic lubrication of MoS₂ particles with different morphologies is evaluated using a four‐fall tribometer in liquid paraffin.

Findings

Results show that the morphology of MoS₂ has an influence on the tribological properties of MoS₂. Both MoS₂ nano‐balls and nano‐platelets function as lubrication additives in liquid paraffin better than MoS₂ micro‐platelets do. It is also found that there is a synergistic lubrication between two different morphologies of MoS₂. The composite MoS₂ additives with different morphologies can improve the wear resistance and friction reduction of liquid paraffin more than each of them singly does. The synergistic lubrication between two different MoS₂ morphologies results from the cooperation of their different lubrication mechanism.

Originality/value

The paper reveals a synergistic lubrication between two different MoS₂ structures. It is very advantageous and practical to partly displace nano‐MoS₂ with micro‐MoS₂.

Citation

Hu, K., Cai, Y., Hu, X. and Xu, Y. (2013), "Synergistic lubrication of MoS₂ particles with different morphologies in liquid paraffin", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 65 No. 3, pp. 143-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/00368791311311141