Performance assessment of graphene oxide based nano-cutting fluids during sustainable hard turning through synthesis, characterization and machinability investigation

Abstract

Achieving sustainability in manufacturing necessitates the implementation of eco-friendly solutions by adopting environmentally friendly coolants with cost-effective, energy-efficient and cleaner production processes without posing any risk to the operator's health. In this current work, mineral oil-based graphene oxide (GO) nano-cutting fluids of different concentration (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 % wt.) are synthesized and their characteristics such as rheological, thermo-physical and tribological properties along with their stability and toxicology impact are thoroughly investigated. Further, the influence of nano-cutting fluid concentration on machinability and sustainability aspects during hard turning such as flank wear, surface integrity, power consumption, cutting temperature, carbon and noise emissions are investigated. According to the result an enhancement of 28.83 % and 29.54 % in viscosity and thermal conductivity have been recorded when concentration of nanofluid increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 %. GO nano-cutting fluids shows anti wear and friction reduction properties by providing excellent lubricious properties, as a result coefficient of friction has been reduced up to 28.36 % at 0.5 % wt. GO compared to plane mineral oil. A notable reduction in flank wear, cutting temperature, surface roughness, cutting temperature, power consumption, carbon emission and noise emission were noticed to be 25.96 %, 27.82 %, 23.86 %, 25.22 %, 11.66 % and 2.72 % respectively when the concentration of GO nanoparticles increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 % wt. Smoother surface with minimal defect has been noticed from the SEM and AFM image of machined workpiece at highest concentration (0.5 % wt.) of GO due to the synergetic effect of GO nano-cutting fluid and dual nozzle MQL system.