Enhancing tribological properties of lubricated contacts via synergistic interactions of green silica nanoparticles and ZDDP

Abstract

Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) anti-wear lubricant additive contributes to significant harmful emissions and its replacement has become a priority. In this study, green silica nanoparticles were synthesized and optimized for concentration to serve as hybrid additives alongside ZDDP in lubricants, aiming to mitigate environmental concerns. A combination of 0.5 wt% silica nanoparticles, 0.5 wt% oleic acid (OA), and 0.75 wt% ZDDP demonstrated notable improvements, reducing ZDDP usage by ∼25 % while achieving significant tribological enhancements. At room temperature, coefficient of friction (COF) was reduced by ∼60 %, and wear was reduced by ∼70 %, while at 100 °C, COF was reduced by ∼80 %, and wear was reduced by ∼96 %. Advanced characterization techniques such as FESEM with EDS mappings, EPMA, and TOF-SIMS were employed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms for observed reduction in friction and wear.