Effect of micro/nanoparticle-modified lubricant on the tribological performance of TC4 titanium alloy

Purpose This study aims to the severe friction and wear issues of TC4 titanium alloy under high-temperature extreme working conditions such as deep well drilling, this study focuses on investigating the enhancement mechanisms of micro-nano particle modified water-based lubricants and elucidating their synergistic lubrication mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach Micro-nano particles and composite particles were prepared using thermal decomposition and hydrothermal methods; the microstructure and morphology of the materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope (SEM); the tribological properties of different lubricants on TC4 titanium alloy were systematically tested on a reciprocating friction and wear tester at temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 80 °C; the wear mechanisms were analyzed by combining SEM morphology of the worn surfaces with three-dimensional profile analysis. Findings The g-C3N4@MoS2 composite particles exhibit excellent synergistic lubrication effects. At 50 °C, the water-based lubricant containing 2.5 Wt.% g-C3N4@MoS2 demonstrates optimal performance, with the friction coefficient and wear rate reduced by 57.03% and 60.58%, respectively, compared to the lubricant without particles. The synergistic effect enhances the formation efficiency, load-bearing capacity and stability of the solid lubricating film, effectively reducing thermal stress and material transfer. Temperature is a key influencing factor, with 50 °C being the optimal synergistic temperature window. An increase in temperature to 80 °C leads to a decline in lubrication performance. Originality/value For the first time, g-C3N4@MoS2 composite particles were introduced into a water-based lubrication system, significantly enhancing their performance in high-temperature lubrication of titanium alloys. This research provides theoretical support for revealing the synergistic lubrication mechanisms of multi-component nano-additives under extreme working conditions, and also offers important practical foundations and optimization strategies for developing efficient, environmentally friendly and high-temperature resistant water-based lubricants suitable for deep well drilling. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: Link to the cited website