Improving physicochemical and tribological characteristics of bio-lubricants using carbon-based hybrid nanomaterials modified by tertiary-butyl-hydroquinone

Vegetable oils are being increasingly studied in tribology due to their environmental benefits. This study investigates the physicochemical and tribological properties of carbon black/silver (CB/Ag) hybrid nanomaterials modified by tertiary-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) as lubricant additives. The composition of the tribolayer formed were characterized using an FE-SEM, 3D surface profilometer, and XPS analysis. The results reveal a substantial decrease in the coefficient of friction (COF) value for the hybrid nanolubricant, with an approximate 31% reduction compared to the baseline oil. Finally, the characterization of worn surfaces strongly supports the noteworthy improvement in friction performance, primarily ascribed to the synergistic effects of CB, Ag nanoparticles, and TBHQ antioxidant surfactants. This study affirms that TBHQ-modified CB/Ag hybrid nanoparticles serve as eco-friendly lubricant additives.