Otimização do processo de síntese de nanolubrificantes aditivados com CuO para ação antidesgaste

Abstract

The challenge of nanotechnology applied in automotive lubrication is in control and manipulation of processing parameters to make possible the application of nanoparticles as additives in lubricants. These parameters flee just one area of knowledge, but that, for the success, it is necessary to bring to this theme multidisciplinary knowledge, making use of concepts from chemistry, physics, mechanics and tribology. In this thesis, were studied the effect of the different processing parameters mentioned in the literature that may cause improvement in antiwear performance of nanoparticles in lubricating oils since the size, concentration, dispersion, surface modifying agent particle, dispersing and surface roughness of the bodies in contact through a range of techniques discussed in the course of work. The results showed that the highest power used (495 W) during the synthesis of nanoparticles in a microwave results in smaller particle size and better dispersion in oil. However, the shape of the nanoparticle was not influenced. The use of oleic acid as coating agent and toluene as the dispersant improved dispersion of the nanoparticles in oil. A smoothness range has been identified in which the nanoparticles were deposited on the surface grooves and had a positive effect in reducing friction, but in the conditions of high and low surface roughness, friction and wear are enhanced. The anti-wear action has been improved at the lowest levels of NNP concentration in the lubricating oil (0,1%) not only steady state but also in the running-in too. In this thesis, after manipulation of several processing parameters, some gaps left in the literature were filled regarding the action of nanoparticles mechanisms when additives in lubricating oils. And it was possible to achieve a condition in which the nanoparticles match the results displayed with a commonly used additive (ZDDP).