Superior performance of ultrathin metal organic framework nanosheets for antiwear and antifriction testing

As the 2D materials were found to produce excellent performance in tribology, we have demonstrated here the use of manganese-based ultrathin metal-organic framework nanosheets [Mn-MOF (U)] as the antiwear and antifriction agent. A facile method has been developed for the synthesis of Mn-MOF (U) by hindering the 3D growth of the MOF in the presence of a strong sigma donor ligand (triethylamine) along with the bridging ligand. The atomic-level thickness (9 nm) of the Mn-MOF (U) was established by microscopic studies as well as by the Tyndall effect. The tribological parameters such as mean wear scar diameter (MWD), the average coefficient of friction (COF), and load-carrying ability of the ultrathin Mn-MOF (U) were compared with the bulk material, Mn-MOF (B). Due to atomic level thickness and 2D morphology, the performance of Mn-MOF (U) was found to be much better than the bulk material. Atomic force microscopic and scanning electron microscopic studies of the wear track indicated the exalted smoothening of the surface in the case of Mn-MOF (U), corroborating the tribological results. The upgraded activity of Mn-MOF (U) has been plausibly explained by the easy sliding of the 2D sheets compared to the bulk materials.

Automated summary

By inhibiting the 3D growth of MOF, ultrathin Mn-MOF (U) with atomic-level thickness was synthesized, showing better performance and enhanced surface smoothness compared to bulk materials.