Effects of ionic liquid and MoDTC additives on the anti-wear performance of soot-containing lubricants for tribopair interface

Abstract

Abstract Soot generated from incomplete combustion is a key factor causing efficiency loss and interfacial failure in engine lubrication systems. To address the tribological issues induced, this study systematically investigated the enhancement effects and mechanisms of aminoguanidine-based ionic liquid (AO-IL), molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC), and their composite formulations on the anti-scuffing capability of a tribopair under soot conditions. Reciprocating friction and wear tests demonstrated that adding appropriate amounts of AO-IL and MoDTC simultaneously can increase anti-scuffing time by up to 145.5%. AO-IL can occupy active sites on worn surfaces. It can improve the weak areas of the MoDTC/zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) tribofilm. This effectively prevents micro-asperity contact and reduces abrasive wear in tribopair interfaces, showing the regulatory role of AO-IL in tribological behavior.