The influence of graphene oxide additives on the structure of graphite/boron nitride filler and tribological characteristics of anti-friction material

The influence of graphene oxide (GO) additives on the structure of the graphite/hexagonal boron nitride hybrid filler and the tribotechnical characteristics of anti-friction composites obtained on its basis was assessed. The nanocomposite preparation method included obtaining the filler (mixture) through mechanical activation of the components, hot mixing the mixture with high-temperature coal tar pitch, pressing, and high-temperature firing. To ensure hermetic sealing, the products were finally impregnated with a furfuryl alcohol solution, followed by polymerization at 300°C. Mixture samples were analysed using thermogravimetry and X-ray diffraction analysis. It was found that with an increase in GO content to 2.80 wt.%, the thermal stability of the mixture increased, after which it began to decline. The dependence of the crystal structure parameters of the filler components (L_c and N) on the GO concentration also exhibited an extreme behaviour. A sample of the charge containing 1.64 wt. % graphene oxide is characterized by maximum L_c and N values for boron nitride and minimum values for the graphite component. Furthermore, the filler of this composition demonstrates maximum sorption capacity for pitch, which contributes to the formation of a high-density and durable material. The finished nanocomposite demonstrates gas permeability of less than 1×10^–5 cm²×s^–1 and compressive strength equal to 197.5 MPa, which is 1.5 times higher than that of an analogue (NIGRAN-V). Bench tests showed that due to the introduction of graphene oxide into the filler composition, wear intensity is reduced by 16 times compared to a sample based on an unmodified charge. The nanocomposite of the optimal composition remains hermetically sealed under extreme operating conditions and can serve as the basis for the creation of high-density and ultra-strong anti-friction materials suitable for use in sealed friction units of pump and compressor systems.

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