Tribological properties of graphene oxide and polyethylene glycol composites under dry friction and oil lubrication conditions

Abstract In the low speed and heavy load of large machinery rotation or sliding parts, the application of copper base ink plate is very extensive. In this study, the graphene oxide‐polyethylene glycol (GO‐PEG) thin films were prepared on the surface of steel plates by gradient heating, and we simulated the friction and wear state of the solid material when it was brought to the metal surface. And the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray energy spectrum analysis, Raman spectroscopy (Raman), and thermogravimetric analysis were used to characterize the structure and properties. The tribological results show that the GO‐PEG composite film prepared by gradient temperature rise method has good lubrication effect. The addition of GO greatly enhances the mechanical properties of the composite films. Compared with the single GO film, the friction coefficient is reduced by 50% and the wear rate is reduced by 85%. The unique characteristics of PEG solved the accumulation phenomenon caused by the strong van der Waals force between GO, then the PEG adhered on GO surfaces caused good lubrication effect. At the same time, the composite film has a broad application prospect in the working environment with little oil and no oil.