Effect of natural attapulgite powders as lubrication additive on the friction and wear performance of a steel tribo-pair

Tribological properties of the surface-modified attapulgite powders as additive to lubricating oil for mated steel contact were investigated. The results indicated that the attapulgite powders exhibit good performance in reducing wear and friction coefficient. Such effect can be attributed to the formation of a smooth and compact tribo-film composed of multiple oxides on the worn surface.