Synergistic influences of laser surface texturing and ZrO2-MoDTC hybrid nanofluids for enhanced tribological performance

This study uses nanofluids and laser surface texturing (LST) synergistically to enhance tribological performance. ZrO2-MoDTC hybrid nanoparticles of different concentrations were used as lubricant additives in base oil. Microtextured patterns of different shapes and sizes were designed and created on steel pin surface by laser ablation, and their tribological performances were assessed using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Appropriate circular dimple textured (DT) surfaces with 0.5 wt% ZrO2-MoDTC hybrid nanofluid produced outstanding friction reduction and anti-wear performance than cross-groove textured (GT) and untextured (UT) surfaces. The average friction coefficient of DT reduced by approximately 24-28% and 57-60% than GT and UT surfaces, respectively. Analysis of the worn surface showed that the synergetic influences of the nanofluid and LST produced excellent tribological performance.

Automated summary

This study investigates the combined use of nanofluids and laser surface texturing (LST) to improve tribological performance. ZrO2-MoDTC hybrid nanoparticles at different concentrations were added as lubricant additives in base oil. Steel pin surfaces were textured using laser ablation to create microtextured patterns of different shapes and sizes, and their tribological performance was evaluated. Circular dimple textured (DT) surfaces with 0.5 wt% ZrO2-MoDTC hybrid nanofluid demonstrated superior friction reduction and anti-wear performance compared to cross-groove textured (GT) and untextured (UT) surfaces. The average friction coefficient of DT was reduced by approximately 24-28% and 57-60% compared to GT and UT surfaces, respectively. The worn surface analysis indicated excellent tribological performance due to the synergistic effects of the nanofluid and LST.