Tribological Properties of Graphene-based Fe_3O_4 Nanocomposite Materials

Graphene-based Fe3O4 nanocomposite materials were prepared by the melthod of Liquid-phase Ultrasonic Exfoliation. Morphologies of nanocomposite materials were characterized by means of SEM and TEM. Its tribological properties as a pure water additive were investigated using multi-functional reciprocating friction and wear tester. The lubrication mechanism was discussed based on results of analyses of SEM, XPS. The results showed that the Fe3O4 nanoparticles with size of 20–90 nm were densely and randomly deposited on interlamination and surface of graphene sheets. The nanocomposite materials as a pure water additive displayed good friction-reducing and antiwear performance. Compared with pure water, the graphene-based Fe3O4 nanocomposite could reduce the friction coefficient of 26.7% and the wear mass of 35.4% under condition of 10 N of load and 0.01wt% of concentration. The prosperity was attributed to the effect of adsorption membrane and boundary lubrication film containing graphene and Fe3O4 which inhibited oxidation of Fe and reduce wear on the frictional surface.