Friction and wear performance of Jatropha oil added with molybdenum disulphide nanoparticles

Nano-materials offer potential scope for an increasing numerous novel applications when engineered to deliver availably functional properties. The nanosized additives when added to biodegradable oils improve their tribological performance and contribute to energy saving and sustainability. In the present study, the MoS2 nanoparticles with different mass ratios were employed as lubricant additives in the base jatropha oil, and their tribological properties were evaluated using a reciprocating ball-on-disc tribometer for steel-steel contacts. The results demonstrate that the MoS2 nanoparticles exhibit superior lubrication performance. The optimal concentration of MoS2 nanoparticles in the base oil was found to be 0.5% for minimum friction and wear rate. Addition of load decreased friction and increased wear rate. The coefficient of friction and wear rate was reduced by 63% and 35%, respectively. The excellent lubrication properties of the MoS2 nanoparticles are attributed to the physical synergistic lubricating actions of nano-MoS2 during the rubbing process.