Functionalized Graphene from Electrochemical Exfoliation of Graphite toward Improving Lubrication Function of Base Oil

Electrochemical exfoliation of graphene is an environmentally friendly method, which enables mass production. Herein, three ionic liquids (ILs) with the same imidazole cation were used to exfoliate graphite into functionalized graphene, as a lubricant additive in acetonitrile solution. Chemical and structural characterization revealed relationship between functionalization density concentration IL, showing higher concentrations densities. The exfoliated hybrid oil displayed good dispersion because high density. More importantly, different anions affected tribological properties graphene. Among them, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([BMIm][PF6]) possessed best performance, average friction coefficient wear volume reduced by 32% 39%, respectively. Through worn surfaces debris, lubrication mechanism evolution illustrated detail. function was attributed formation tribo-film disorder transformation structure. simultaneous offers promising advanced for industrial fabrication.