A review on tribological characterization of lubricants with nano additives for automotive applications

Abstract

Automotive manufacturers made significant efforts to achieve an overall increase in the energy efficiency and to reduce the toxic emission level. In the way to achieve these goals, non-conventional engine technologies were brought to the market with improved efficiency and controlled emission system. Numerous other supporting technologies which include biofuels and newly improved lubricants were also involved to contribute in automotive engine system improvement. The problem of friction and wear being inbred to the automotive application, further raise environmental hazards by way of more fuel consumption and wear debris. For several years there have been numerous efforts to reduce the amount of fuel consumed by automotive engines. Many of the solutions been strictly mechanical based. Other efforts have revolved around finding the lubricants that reduce the overall friction in the engine. Lubricants perform an anti-friction media which facilitate smooth operation, reduce friction, wear and risk of frequent failure. Due to this ever-increasing demand for lubricant, a considerable amount of work has been done to modify the lubricating oils with additives to enhance their overall properties. This review paper is aimed to highlight the research carried out in the field of lubricating oil with nano additives for the automotive applications.