Friction and wear properties of IF-MoS2 as additive in paraffin oil

Inorganic fullerene-like (IF) MoS2 nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 70 to 120 nm were synthesized by desulphurizing the MoS3 precursor and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Tribological properties of the IF-MoS2, as lubricating oil additive, were evaluated using a MMW-1 four-ball tribotester. The wear scar was examined with an optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The wear resistance of the paraffin oil was improved and the friction coefficient of the oil was decreased by addition of the IF-MoS2 nanoparticles. The mechanism of friction and wear of the IF-MoS2 nanoparticles was discussed.