Effects of molecular structures of carbon-based molecules on bio-lubrication

The lack of lubrication affects the performance of both natural and artificial joints and often leads to their failure. This research investigates the tribological performance of four carbon-based molecules, phloroglucinol, 1,2-dihydroxynaphthalene, graphene oxide (GO), and diamondoid (diamantane-4,9-dicarboxylic acid), as water-based lubricants against ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Results showed friction reduction for all lubricants and GO performed the best. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that GO flakes were prone to be adsorbed on the surface. The mending effect was dominant for the rest molecules that is less effective in lowering friction.