Enhancing AW/EP tribological characteristics of biolubricant synthesized from chemically modified cotton methyl-esters by using nanoparticle as additives

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to improve the tribological characteristics of cotton-biolubricant by adding nanoparticles at extreme pressure (EP) conditions in comparison with commercial lubricant SAE-40. Design/methodology/approach This research involved the synthesis of cotton-biolubricant by transesterification process and then the addition of nanoparticles in it to improve anti wear (AW)/EP tribological behavior. SAE-40 was studied as a reference commercial lubricant. AW/EP characteristics of all samples were estimated by the four-ball tribo-tester according to the American Society for Testing and Materials D2783 standard. Findings The addition of 1-Wt.% TiO2 and Al2O3 with oleic acid surfactant in cotton-biolubricant decreased wear scar diameter effectively and enhanced the lubricity, load-wear-index, weld-load and flash-temperature-parameters. This investigation revealed that cotton-biolubricant with TiO2 nano-particle additive is more effective and will help in developing new efficient biolubricant to replace petroleum-based lubricants. Research limitations/implications Cotton biolubricant with TiO2 nano-particles appeared as an optimistic solution for the global bio-lubricant market. Originality/value No one has not studied the cotton biolubricant with nanoparticles for internal combustion engine applications at high temperature and EP conditions.