Synthesis of Zirconium(IV) Oxyacrylate Complexes with Polypyridine Ligands and Their Application as Precursors of Nanomaterials with Antiwear Properties

In the present study, complexes of zirconium(IV) oxyacrylate with polypyridine ligands 2,2'-bipyridine, 1,10-phenanthroline, and 4'-phenyl-2,2':6',2''-terpyridine are synthesized for the first time and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry. Nanosized zirconium oxides are obtained by thermolysis of these complexes at 600°C and subsequently studied by X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The mean crystallite size of the obtained zirconium oxide nanoparticles is 5.63–6.06 nm. Spherical and oval shapes are typical of zirconium oxide nanoparticles. The products are tested as antiwear additives in lubricating oils. The optimal concentrations of nanoparticles are determined, with which the antiwear properties of the lubricant are best manifested.