Influence of surfactants on tribological behaviors of MWCNTs (multi-walled carbon nano-tubes)

Abstract

Multi-Walled Carbon Nano-Tubes (MWCNTs) are employed as anti-wear and anti-friction additives in mineral oil. The MWCNTs are known for their superior thermal conductivity, mechanical and optical properties. It is expected that hollow-core carbon nano-tubes provide easy sliding as well as rotating action with respect to one another; therefore, there is a need to explore the use of MWCNT as lubricant additive. In the present research work, experimental investigations have been conducted to explore the importance of the MWCNTs as additives in the lubricating oils. Tests were performed on three oil samples: Sample 1 (Base oil), Sample 2 (MWCNT with base oil) and Sample 3 (MWCNT and surfactant with base oil), by employing block on disc set-up. To understand the role of surfactant on MWCNT towards reducing the friction and wear, sensitivity analysis performed using fractional factorial table has been detailed. The results of cumulative wear and friction have been reported in this study.

Keywords:

• MWCNT
• Surfactant
• Wear
• Friction