Graphene based nanofluids and nanolubricants - Review of recent developments

This review article presents an overview of the remarkable research progress on graphene based nanofluids and nanolubricants witnessed in the recent years. Graphene flakes have been investigated worldwide as an additive for coolants and lubricants due to their excellent thermo-physical and tribological properties. As a result, we have highlighted various synthesis methods, characterization techniques and properties measurement procedures that have been experimented and developed. Moreover, factors affecting the stability, thermal conductivity, viscosity and tribological properties of various nanoparticle based formulations have been delineated in detail. Although very few mechanisms have been proposed to explain the enhancement of thermal conductivity, viscosity and anti-wear behavior of graphene nanolubricants/nanofluids, some key concerns have been presented. This exhaustive review along with the critical comments and recommendations provided could be useful for future directions in this research field. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.