The anti-seizure effect of Ag nanoparticles additive in multialkylated cyclopentanes oil under vacuum condition

The effect of surface-modified Ag nanoparticles as additives of multialkylated cyclopentanes (MACs) was investigated in air and vacuum by a vacuum four-ball tribometer. The results showed that both the MACs and MACs containing Ag nanoparticles exhibited steady and low friction coefficients and slight wear in air. However, under vacuum conditions, MACs showed the initial seizure-like high friction, while introducing Ag nanoparticles could effectively eliminate it. Confirmed by the surface analysis, the improved tribological performances caused by Ag nanoparticles could be ascribed to the metal Ag boundary film formed on the friction pair surfaces during tests.

► The MACs exhibited lower friction and slighter wear in air than those in vacuum.
► The initial seizure-like high friction of MACs base oil was found under vacuum.
► Ag nanoparticles could effectively eliminate the initial high friction.
► The tribological mechanism is the formation of the metal Ag boundary film.