Performance Study of Graphene-Zinc Oxide Hybrid Nanolubricants under Various Test Conditions

Abstract

The current research is focused on developing and characterising a new lubricant with hybrid composite nano additives of graphene and zinc oxide (AZnOGO) with improved antifriction properties. A central composite design model was used to characterise the effects of the various parameters. Using response surface methodology (RSM), the major elements employed to investigate the output response of coefficient of friction are sliding speed, applied load, temperature, and concentration of hybrid particles. According to the study, nanoparticle concentration is the most essential factor in lubricant design. Minor modifications in concentration might have a significant impact on the response. Other important considerations are sliding speed and operating temperature, and the load applied to be the least important in the selected region. The quadratic best-suited model is used to predict output in the surrounding region. Incorporating 0.1 wt.% AZnOGO produces considerable benefits, including enhanced thermophysical characteristics, and a 24% decrease in friction coefficient. Potentiodynamic research on stainless steel surfaces reveals a significant 39% reduction in corrosion current, confirming AZnOGO’s superior surface protection properties when compared to virgin oil. © ASM International 2024.