The tribology properties of alumina/silica composite nanoparticles as lubricant additives

► By surface modification, Al2O3/SiO2 composite nanoparticles can dispersed in mineral oil homogenously. ► The modified Al2O3/SiO2 nanoparticles as lubricating oil additives can greatly reduce the friction coefficient. ► The oil lubricating performance using composite nanoparticles as additives was better than pure Al2O3 or SiO2 particles.