Block Copolymer Nanoparticles Prepared via Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly Provide Excellent Boundary Lubrication Performance for Next-Generation Ultralow-Viscosity Automotive Engine Oils

Abstract

Core cross-linked poly(stearyl methacrylate)–poly(benzyl methacrylate)–poly(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) [S31–B200–E20] triblock copolymer nanoparticles were synthesized directly in an industrial mineral oil via polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA). Gel permeation chromatography analysis of the S31–B200 diblock copolymer precursor chains indicated a well-controlled reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer dispersion polymerization, while transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light-scattering (DLS), and small-angle X-ray scattering studies indicated the formation of well-defined spheres. Moreover, DLS studies performed in THF, which is a common solvent for the S and B blocks, confirmed successful covalent stabilization because well-defined solvent-swollen spheres were obtained under such conditions. Tribology experiments using a mini-traction machine (MTM) indicated that 0.50% w/w dispersions of S31–B200–E20 spheres dramatically reduce the friction coefficient of base oil within the boundary lubrication regime. Given their efficient and straightforward PISA synthesis at high solids, such nanoparticles offer new opportunities for the formulation of next-generation ultralow-viscosity automotive engine oils.

Publication DOI: https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.9b12472
Divisions: College of Engineering & Physical Sciences
College of Engineering & Physical Sciences > School of Infrastructure and Sustainable Engineering > Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry
Additional Information: This is an open access article published under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the author and source are cited.
Publication ISSN: 1944-8252
Last Modified: 30 Sep 2024 12:19
Date Deposited: 07 Jan 2020 13:42
Full Text Link:
Related URLs: https://pubs.ac ... /acsami.9b12472 (Publisher URL)
PURE Output Type: Article
Published Date: 2019-09-11
Published Online Date: 2019-08-20
Accepted Date: 2019-08-20
Authors: Derry, Matthew J. (ORCID Profile 0000-0001-5010-6725)
Smith, Timothy
O’hora, Paul S.
Armes, Steven P.

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