Intelligent Current-Controlled Behavior of Intercalated MXene@Triethanolamine Borate Nanocomposite as Lubricant Additives

Friction and lubrication of components in mechanical transmission systems are crucial to their transmission efficiency. As for the extreme conditions, the performance of traditional liquid lubricants would be degraded, which causes significant harm to the safe and reliable operation of equipment. Therefore, the development of a high-efficiency composite lubricant is particularly important. In this study, MXene@Triethanolamine borate nanocomposite were prepared via the ultrasonic intercalation method. Furthermore, the composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The tribological properties of intercalated MXene@TB in the BMIMPF6 ionic liquid were evaluated under current using a ball-on-disk tribometer. The average friction coefficient of lubricant with 0.3% intercalated MXene@TB-1 was reduced by 9.8%, and its wear volume was also decreased by 36.1%. Additionally, the application of current can enhance the tribological performance of lubricant. Specifically, the wear volume of int- MXene@TB-2 was decreased by 52% due to the current-induced ion migration and lubricating film repair. Moreover, the application of current promotes the movement of nanoparticles within the ionic liquid, minimizing aggregation and further enhancing the formation of the lubrication film. The lubricant nanocomposite with high-efficiency friction reduction and anti-wear properties can be further applied in current-carrying friction field. Graphical abstract