Multilayer graphene for reducing friction and wear in water-based sand cleaning liquid

Two dimensional (2d) lubricant materials further explore their application in oil and gas field with the research direction of reducing friction and wear. In this study, we added multilayer graphene into water-based sand cleaning liquid to reduce friction and wear of the CT80 coiled tubing. The results showed that the addition of multilayer graphene significantly improved the anti-friction and wear resistance. Adding 0.5% multilayer graphene effectively reduced COF and wear by 75%. Additionally, the higher multilayer graphene concentration, the greater CT80 material withstood the load of severe wear. Multilayer graphene can be adsorbed on the wear debris or form a lubrication film on both worn surfaces, which facilitated the transportation of the debris. Moreover, the wear analysis indicated the main wear form of the CT80 material was abrasive wear and fatigue wear. •Multilayer graphene reduces friction and wear of CT80 coiled tubing in water-based sand cleaning liquid.•The higher multilayer graphene concentration, the greater CT80 material withstand the load.•Abrasive and fatigue wear are the main form of the CT80 material.•Multilayer graphene can be adsorbed on the debris and contact surfaces to form lubrication films.