Understanding the role of water-based nanolubricants in micro flexible rolling of aluminium

To comprehend the role of water-based nanolubricant in micro flexible rolling, corresponding characterisation with respect to different concentrations of nanolubricants, surface roughness variation subjected to each micro flexible rolling phase and dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) were studied systematically. The results reveal that increasing NPs get trapped into the surfaces from the thicker zone to the thinner zone. Downward transition zone with favourable deformation features leads to the smoother surface roughness. Nanolubricants can effectively decrease rolling traces due to the beneficial nanolubrication mechanisms. Notably, the maximum reduction for rolling force is around 18% for the case under 2.0 wt% nanolubricant rolling condition. The current study provides great potential insights in how nanolubrication takes effect in microforming areas. •Water-based nanolubricants distinctly reduce the rolling forces during micro flexible rolling.•Increasing NPs get trapped into the surfaces from the thicker zone to the thinner zone.•Downward transition zone with favourable deformation features leads to the smoother surface roughness.•More remained NPs are detected near the middle area along the transverse direction of the specimen.•Water-based nanolubricants can effectively decrease rolling traces due to the beneficial nanolubrication mechanisms.