Tribological properties of multi-layer graphene as lubricant additive

The multi-layer graphene, thickness being 10-180 nm, was prepared by the method of liquid ultrasonic stripping in deionized water, n-butanol, dimethyl sulfoxide and characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM). The tribological properties of multi-layer graphene as lubricant additive were investigated using a multi-functional reciprocating friction and wear tester. By the addition of multi-layer graphene in paraffin liquid, the friction coefficient was decreased and the antiwear ability was improved. It is concluded that the formation of physisorption films and tribochemistry reaction films on the worn surface can explain the excellent friction and wear properties of multi-layer graphene.