Enhancing the tribological properties and corrosion resistance of graphene-based lubricating grease via ultrasonic-assisted ball milling

Lubricating grease working in extreme environments requires both excellent tribological properties and strong corrosion resistance. In this work, multi-layer graphene (GR) is chemically modified with oleic acid and the modified graphene (MGR) is dispersed in base oil by ultrasonic-assisted ball milling. Results show that GR is successfully modified by oleic acid, which is beneficial to improve the dispersibility in lubricating oil. After that, the composite lubricating oil is thickened into lubricating grease. Research results indicate the lubricating grease containing proper amount of MGR possesses both outstanding tribological properties and good corrosion resistance. Finally, the mechanism of lubrication and corrosion resistance of lubricating grease are discussed and proposed. The work provides a reference for the relevant academic research and practical application. [Display omitted] We develop a strategy to prepare graphene-based grease with excellent tribological properties and corrosion resistance via ultrasonic-assisted ball milling. •Modified graphene exhibits excellent dispersibility and stability in the oil via ultrasonic-assisted ball milling.•The composite lubricating grease exhibits excellent tribological properties.•The corrosion resistance of the grease is rarely reported and the grease exhibits excellent corrosion resistance.•The lubrication mechanism and the mechanism of corrosion resistance are discussed systematically.