Abstract: The mixture of Nb and Se powders in stoichiometric ratio were encapsulated in a quartz ampoules or pressed as flakes. After being heated to a desired temperature, NbSe₂ nanofibers and nanoparticles were obtained. The morphology of NbSe₂ nanomaterials were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The friction and wear of NbSe₂  nanomaterials as additive in commercial lubricating oil N40 were initially investigated on a MS-T3000 tribo-meter. The results showed that NbSe₂ nanofibers with diameter of 100~200nm and NbSe₂ nanoparticles with diameter of 40~ 300nm had sandwich structure and good crystallinity. The antiwear and friction reducing abilities of N40 with NbSe₂ as additive were much better than that of base oil N40. Compared with NbSe₂ nanofibers, the nanoparticles have better friction reducing ability.

Key words: NbSe₂, nanofibers, nanoparticles, friction reducing capability

Author: Li Changsheng, Professor, School of Material Science and Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China

E-mail: lichangsheng@ujs.edu.cn

Tribology, Vol. 29, Issue 5, 2009, 437-441.