Tribological performance of graphene-nanoplatelets as grease additive

In this paper, the effect graphene added to standard grease to create a high performance lubricant has been investigated. Firstly, the Coefficient of Friction (CoF) of different compositions of grease-graphene compounds has been evaluated using a Pin-on-Disk Tribometer. Then, experimental tests have been performed on a mechanical component (a spline coupling) commonly used in many industrial applications. In particular, the friction force has been measured lubricating the parts with different compositions of grease-graphene compounds, similar to those already considered in Pin-on-Disk characterizations. Tests have been performed by means of a dedicated test rig. Results show that graphene added to grease generally reduces the coefficient of friction, in both materials and components.