Investigating the Anti-Wear Behavior of Polyalphaolefin Oil with Methyl Silicon Resin Using Advanced Analytical Techniques

This research thoroughly examined the tribological characteristics of polyalphaolefin (PAO4) oil, both with and without the incorporation of methyl silicone resin. The evaluation of anti-wear properties and friction reduction was conducted using a four-ball tester for friction and wear. The incorporation of methyl silicone resin into PAO4 at 25 °C significantly reduced the wear scar diameter (WSD), achieving minimum values at a concentration of 0.02 wt.%. PAO4 with 0.02 wt.% methyl silicone resin shows excellent wear resistance at different temperatures. A detailed analysis of the wear scar surfaces and wear debris was conducted using scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, 3D surface profiler and TEM. The results compellingly demonstrate that the remarkable improvement in wear resistance is predominantly due to the strategic formation of SiO2 nanoparticles during the friction process. These SiO2 particles not only adeptly fill the surface gaps at the friction interface but also crucially contribute to the formation of a robust tribochemical film, which is instrumental in enhancing wear performance.