Recent Progress on the 0D Nanomaterials in Metals for Lubrication

Abstract

Over the past two decades, metal-matrix composites reinforced with nano-materials have been extensively used in various prominent fields, such as aerospace, shipbuilding, and food machinery, etc., owing to their demonstrated good chemical, mechanical, and tribological properties. Nevertheless, understanding fundamental effects of nanomaterials in the friction and wear performances of metals has not been systematically reviewed by subdividing them from 0D dimensionality. Herein, this review summarizes the recent advances on tribological applications of 0D nanomaterials in the metals involving ferrous metals, nonferrous metals, and special metals, with the underlying friction-reducing and wear resistance mechanisms. In addition, practical application prospects, as well as future challenges and important recommendations of nanomaterials are briefly summarized, that are needed to boost the development of nano-tribology and expand the diversity of practical applications.