Molecular dynamics simulation on the tribology properties of two hard nanoparticles (diamond and silicon dioxide) confined by two iron blocks

The tribology behaviors of diamond and silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles were examined via molecular dynamics simulations; four cases were simulated. At low velocity and low load, the nanoparticles separated the two blocks from each other and acted as ball-bearings. The plastic deformation, temperature distribution, and friction force were all improved due to the action of the nanoparticles. However, the crushing of the SiO2 nanoparticles was accompanied by deformation-induced loss of the rolling effect, when the load was increased. Without nanoparticles, a transfer layer formed at high velocity and low load. The two nanoparticles provided support for a certain duration. However, at high velocity and high load, the support effect of these nanoparticles was lost in a short sliding time.