Performance optimization by study of tribological and rheological properties of dates oil with graphene oxide nano-additives

Abstract

The rheological and tribological properties of dates (Balanites Aegyptiaca) oil as bio-lubricants blended with graphene oxide nanoparticles (GNP) have been studied. SDS surfactants were used to ensure the maximum possible dispersion of the nanoparticles in oil. XRD, particle size analyzer, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and photoluminescence are used for the Characterization of the GNPs. Samples with 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% concentration of graphene oxide by weight % in dates oil were made and then tested for rheological properties like viscosity and shear stress, compared with base lubricant. Tribological properties like friction, wear and wear scare diameter analysis was carried out using pin on disc setup. Out of the various concentrations of GNP 0.75%, blended oil revealed the best composition suitable as a replacement for engine oil. Largely the GNP’s additives resulted in lower viscosity, lower torque, friction, and wear. The wear scar diameter (WSD) images revealed 0.75% blend is recommended for commercial applications.

Keywords:

• Friction
• graphene
• nanoparticles
• wear

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

Support from the Central Instrumentation Center (CIC) of the University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun, India is gratefully acknowledged.