Improved tribological and noise suppression performance of graphene/nitrile butadiene rubber composites via the exfoliation effect of ionic liquid on graphene

Abstract

AbstractMinimization and suppression of friction and noise in underwater bearings remains a key aspect in modern marine vehicle industry owing to the growing need for reliability, and passenger comfort. In this study, graphene nano‐flake (Gr) was introduced into the nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) with assistance of ionic liquid (IL). Owing to the positive charge generated by the secondary ordering layer on the Gr surface, Gr were effectively exfoliate into few layers and uniformly dispersed in the NBR matrix. Accordingly, the friction coefficient and volume wear rate decreased to 0.3124 and 6.44 × 10−6 mm3·N−1·m−1 in the nanocomposite, depicting a 31.52% and 51.9% reduction than pure NBR. It was demonstrated that the reinforced hardness and the formation of tribological layer of Gr played a vital role in the lubricating mechanism where both deformation and the continuation of the stick–slip effect were prevented. As a proof of concept, the total vibration acceleration level of the NBR/GR‐IL composite decreased from 111.37 ± 5.57 dB to 79.68 ± 3.98 dB, exhibiting good noise and vibration suppression effect. This work not only broadens the application of GR‐based materials, but also shed some light on the designing philosophy to improve the efficiency, service life and safety of the future marine vehicles.