Experimental study on the efficacy of MoS2 microfluids for improved tribological performance

This paper reports the synthesis and tribo-performance investigation of microfluids developed using silane functionalized µ-molybdenum disulphide (µ-MoS2) particles for improved tribological performance. The functionalized µ-MoS2 particles were characterized by analytical techniques like Fourier-transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The µ-MoS2 particles were then blended with mineral base oil in varying concentrations. The lubrication characteristics in terms of anti-friction, anti-wear, and extreme pressure properties of the µ-MoS2 particle blended microfluids were evaluated under different lubrication regimes. The results showed an excellent improvement in anti-wear, anti-friction, and extreme pressure properties. The tribo-performance of the MoS2 microfluids strongly depends on the compatibility and concentration of particles with base oils. Functionalization of the µ-MoS2 particles by trichlorooctadecylsilane allows forming stable dispersion in base oil. The MoS2 microfluids can be used as lubricants in advance tribological applications.