Influence of nanophase Mo₂C particles on the performance of automotive lubricant SAE15W40

Abstract In the current investigation, Mo 2 C nanoparticles which have been subjected to modification with stearic acid were successfully produced through utilization of a magnetic stirrer, followed by a subsequent phase of vacuum drying lasting for 12 h. The incorporation of three distinct weight percentage concentrations (0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) of nanoparticles into base lubricating oil SAE15W40 was carried out to synthesize nano lubricants. A comprehensive analysis of the physical and chemical attributes of the newly synthesized nano-lubricants was conducted, encompassing examinations of parameters such as acidity levels, calorific content, flash and fire points, viscosity characteristics, and thermal stability properties. Furthermore, an assessment of the tribological behavior of the synthesized nano lubricants was performed under varying loads utilizing a pin on disk tribometer apparatus. The nano lubricant containing 0.3 weight percent of Mo 2 C exhibited notably enhanced performance in comparison to the base lubricating oil.