Investigation of Lubrication Characteristics of Virgin and Additive Blended Jatropha Based Grease

Abstract

Increasing interest in utilizing bio-lubricants has been sparked by pollution caused by the mineral oil-based lubricants and their depletion. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Jatropha oil based grease as a basis and sodium thickener as an additive. The grease's lubricating abilities were tested using the ASTM 2266 four ball test and molybdenum disulphide as an additive. According to the findings, adding molybdenum disulphide particles decreased wear and the coefficient of friction, with the latter falling by 69% when compared to virgin Jatropha grease. Given that Jatropha grease passed the four ball test, a simulation of real-world conditions, this indicates that it is a reliable lubricant. Wear examinations were performed on steel balls using an optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy, and the results were consistent. It was found that addition of 0.25% MoS2 to virgin Jatropha grease reduced coefficient of friction to 0.12 (69%) from 0.39. Similarly wear scar diameter reduced from 800.583 µ to 788.44 µ in presence of 0.25% MoS2 blended grease. The study concludes that the grease prepared could an alternative to grease made from mineral oils. The focus on adopting Jatropha grease as a more sustainable and bio-degradable option can preserve the environment.