Dispersity, stability and tribology behavior of modified nanoserpentine in lubricating oil

Purpose The purpose of this study is to improve the dispersion of nanoserpentine modified with OA, KH550 and KH550/oleic acid in lubricating oil. The main aims are to analyze the influence of the dispersion and stability of nanoserpentine modified by different modifiers on the friction properties of lubricating oil. Design/methodology/approach The nanoserpentine particles obtained by ball-milling were modified by silane coupling agent KH550, OA and KH550/OA, respectively. The dispersity and stability of nanoserpentine in base lubricating oil were characterized by the absorbance value method, centrifuge precipitation rate method and static observation method. The MMU-5G screen display friction and wear tester was used to evaluate the tribological properties of C45E4/C45E4 friction pairs in corresponding lubricating oils. The surface morphology of the friction pairs was observed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Findings The results showed that the dispersity and stability of nanoserpentine particles in lubricating oil were best modified by OA, followed by the KH550/OA and finally, the KH550. Nanoserpentine particles modified with oleic acid showed optimum tribological properties as lubricant additives. Originality/value This study can improve the dispersion stability of nanoserpentine particles in lubricating oil, increasing the antiwear and antifriction performance of lubricating oil, which has great significance in economic and military aspects.