Experimental Study on Tribological, Rheological and Bio-degradability Characteristics of Canola Oil with TiO2 Nanoparticles as Bio-nanolubricants

In response to growing environmental concerns about the adverse effects of conventional lubricants, there has been a surge in the demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Biodegradable lubricants, crafted from renewable sources, represent a sustainable solution to address these environmental apprehensions. This research describes the tribological, rheological properties and biodegradability of rapeseed oil with 0.25 to 1.25 weight percent TiO2 nanoparticles as additives. The lubricant samples were prepared using a magnetic stirrer and an ultrasonic device. Friction and wear properties such as coefficient of friction and wear scar diameter were determined using a four-ball tester. In comparison with SAE20W40, samples 1 (0.25 weight percentage of TiO2) and sample 2 (0.5 weight percentage of TiO2) shown remarkably improved tribological performance, with 73.32% and 66.76% decreases in coefficient of friction (COF), respectively. Shear stress, shear rate and dynamic viscosity are analyzed using a rheometer. The acquired results are juxtaposed with both pure canola oil and various mineral oils for comparison. The nano-lubricant synthesized in this study emerges as a viable alternative to SAE10, DXT3 (steering fluid), and SAE20W50 grade oils, demonstrating lower friction and a reduced wear scar diameter. Biodegradability tests were performed on all generated samples using the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) apparatus, and all samples exhibited a BOD to Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) ratio better than 0.5, indicating biocompatibility. The findings of the research investigation indicate that the combination of canola oil with TiO2 blends holds significant promise as an alternative to conventional synthetic lubricant oils.