Nanodiamonds (ND) with the average size of 5 nm can be very
efficient in lubricants taking part in three different processes:
- Fine lapping of friction
surfaces: ND remove micro-notch and level the surface significantly reducing
the friction;
- Surface hardening: ND are
harder than steel by the factor of fifty, therefore, ND penetrate friction
surfaces under a pressure during operating and create a protective diamond
surface layer (diffusion coating). This increase in the wear and corrosion resistance
and prolong the service life of the parts;
- Nano-bearings: under some
pressure and temperature conditions ND particles pass the process of oxidation
turning into onion-like-carbons (OLC) which makes them efficient bearings between friction surfaces. This also reduces
the friction significantly.
Use ND additives in lubricants results in the following:
- Increase in the power or
decrease in the energy consumption
- Easier cold starts
- Noise reduction
- Decrease in exhaust gas
emission (in the case of internal combustion engines)
- High reliability and
durability (service life increases by the factor of 2-3)
ND lubricants are
already entering Global Market in recent years. However, for serious market
penetration ND lubricants should be investigated in various processes with
diverse materials.
Ray Techniques manufactures ND and ND stable suspensions.
Now we are looking for partners interested in joint development of nanodiamond
additives to lubricants and their commercialization.