Tribological properties and tribochemical analysis of nano-cerium oxide and sulfurized isobutene in titanium complex grease

Although titanium complex grease has captured wide attention, limited studies were carried out to develop an effective lubricant specifically for extreme operational applications. In this study, terephthalic acid-based titanium complex grease was synthesized. The effects of ceria oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles and sulfurized isobutene (SIB) on the tribological performance of titanium complex grease were investigated using a four-ball tribometer. It was found that because of a synergistic effect of SIB and CeO2 nanoparticles on titanium complex grease, the tribological properties were significantly improved. This study provides a promising lubricant for extreme pressure applications.