Slow Release of Fullerene-like WS2 Nanoparticles from Fe−Ni Graphite Matrix: A Self-Lubricating Nanocomposite

Densified iron−nickel−graphite blocks were prepared by powder metallurgy processes and subsequently impregnated with a few percent of fullerene-like WS 2 nanoparticles (<150 nm), synthesized in a fluidized bed reactor. Using the disc-block setup, the friction coefficient; critical load for seizure, and wear rates were measured. Substantial improvements in all of the tribological parameters were measured with the addition of the fullerene-like nanoparticldes. This behavior is attributed to a slow release of the nanoparticles from the porous matrix onto the block surface and their excellent tribological behavior.