Effects of Ti3C2Tz MXene nanoparticle additive on fluidic properties and tribological performance

Nanoparticle additives are known to enhance a range of fluidic properties, including thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and viscosity. Ti3C2Tz nanosheets exhibit high thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and mechanical strength, making them promising candidates as lubricant additives. In this work, we evaluate the performance of Ti3C2Tz as an additive to enhance the heat transfer, rheological properties, and tribological performance of silicone and Polyalphaolefin (PAO) oils. The acid-etched Ti3C2Tz nanosheets were synthesized and characterized by SEM, XRD, and XPS to confirm etching. The nanofluids were produced by dispersing the Ti3C2Tz nanosheets in silicone and PAO oils at different loadings. Experimental results showed that adding Ti3C2Tz improved thermal conductivity by 16 % and 23 % in silicone and PAO oils, respectively. The rheological data revealed that adding Ti3C2Tz nanosheets reduced the viscosity by 12.3 % (at 0.09 wt%) and 18.1 % (0.04 wt %) in silicone and PAO oil, respectively. This non-Einstein viscosity reduction can be attributed to the disruption of intermolecular bonding of base oil molecule. The addition of Ti3C2Tz reduced the friction by 23 % (0.09 wt%) and 65 % (0.04 wt%) in silicone and PAO oils, respectively. The improved properties and reduced fluidic drag in viscosity and friction lead to potential applications in (electrical) vehicles that will be helpful in attaining improved fuel economy.