Synergistic effect of MXene and PTFE with multi-structure as lubricant additives for tribological applications

Nanomaterials play an important role in reducing friction and wear when used as lubricating additives. Due to synergistic effects, nanocomposites often have superior lubrication properties than individual materials. Therefore, based on the structural differences between MXene and phenolic resin modified polytetrafluoroethylene (mPTFE), MXene@mPTFE composites with multiple heterogeneous structures are designed and constructed. As expected, the synergistic effect of layered MXene and mPTFE nanoparticles endows MXene@mPTFE excellent tribological performance. Under the action of shear force, mPTFE nanoparticles accelerate the interlayer slip between MXene nanosheets, and mPTFE nanoparticles with high hardness and thermal stability act as ball bearings to improve the extreme pressure characteristics of the oil. Compared to base oil (PAO-6), the coefficient of friction (COF) decreased from 0.644 to 0.111, the wear volume decreased by 92.7 %, and the bearing capacity increased to 750 N. This study provides new implications for the development of nanolubricant additives. [Display omitted] •MXene@mPTFE composites are formed by loading PTFE onto MXene nanosheets.•MXene and mPTFE can effectively achieve synergistic lubrication as oil-based additives.•A protective film can be generated by physical adsorption and tribochemical reaction.