The Effects of Surface Modification on Properties of Solid Lubricant Additives

Abstract

Three different fine-particles (lanthanum fluoride nanoparticles, cerium oxide nanoparticles and zinc borate submicron particles) were modified and tested on the purpose of study the effects of surface modified fine-particles when they used as lubricant additives in liquid paraffin. The modified fine-particles were examined and characterised by a FT-IR spectroscopy and a zeta-potential measurer. The tribological performances of surface modified fine-particles were invalided by a pin-on-disc test rig under various experimental environments. The worn surfaces on post-tested pin were analysed by AFM, SEM and a nano-indentation tester. The results indicated Hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HS) modified lanthanum fluoride nanoparticles and HS modified cerium oxide nanoparticles all shown better dispersibility than unmodified lanthanum fluoride nanoparticles and unmodified cerium oxide nanoparticles in liquid paraffin (LP). HS modified lanthanum fluoride nanoparticles and HS modified cerium oxide nanoparticles also have been approved that they can improve the tribological properties of LP significantly under various working conditions. The formation of tribo-films on the worn scar is the key mechanism of friction and wear reduction. On the other hand, surface modified zinc borate submicron particles have not demonstrated great potential as an oil lubricant additive under various working conditions. HS, as a particle surface modifier, could improve the performance of fine-particle oil lubricant additives impressively. The positive effects of HS on both dispersibility and tribological performance of surface modified fine-particles were observed.