MoS2-functionalized attapulgite hybrid toward high-performance thickener of lubricating grease

An important prerequisite for developing high-performance industrial lubricating grease is to regulate the composition and structure of thickener for obtaining lubrication function. Herein, MoS2-grafted attapulgite (ATP) hybrid as grease thickener was prepared by one-step hydrothermal method. The polarizable Mo atoms were coupled with the tetrahedral structure of ATP matrix to yield MoS2-functionalized ATP (ATP/MoS2) hybrid. The regulated-grease using ATP/MoS2 as thickener in poly-alpha-olefin (PAO40) oil significantly reduces the friction (31.5%) and wear (37.5%) due to the synergy of as-prepared ATP/MoS2 thickener with superior thickening and lubrication function. The achievement of superior tribological properties mainly depends on the interlayer slip of even-distributed MoS2 and tribo-chemical film. MoS2-functionalized ATP might guide the development of a novel nano-thickener for high-performance lubricating grease.