Hybrid n-Alkylamine Intercalated Layered Titanates for Solid Lubrication

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Tribology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Layered titanates offer potential for high-temperature solid lubrication.
• Developing advanced lubricants is crucial for extreme operating conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the intercalation of n-alkylamines into layered titanates.
• To evaluate the high-temperature solid lubrication performance of modified titanates.
• To determine the effect of alkyl chain length on tribological properties.

Main Methods:

• In situ small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to monitor intercalation.
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and DRIFTS for thermal and chemical analysis.
• High-temperature pin-on-disc experiments to measure friction coefficients.

Main Results:

• Rapid intercalation (under 5 minutes) of n-alkylamines into titanates at 80 °C.
• Acid-base reaction drives the topotactic transformation of titanates.
• Intercalated titanates form deformable ceramic films upon heating.
• Longer alkyl chains lead to lower friction forces.
• Coefficients of friction as low as 0.01 were achieved, surpassing graphite.

Conclusions:

• N-alkylamine intercalation is an effective method to enhance titanate lubrication properties.
• Hydrocarbon chain length is a critical factor in reducing friction.
• These modified titanates represent a promising alternative for high-temperature solid lubrication applications.