Ionic liquid lubricity enhancement with bio-oil derived from microwave pyrolysis of bamboo

Abstract

In response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly lubrication, this study explores the potential of bio-oil-infused lubricants. The investigation focuses on the interaction between bio-oil, derived from raw bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) through microwave pyrolysis at power levels between 500 and 800 W at 700 ∘C, and the protic ionic liquid, [Oley][Oleic]. The bio-oil, predominantly composed of diethyl phthalate (DEP) and fatty acid methyl ester (FAME), is blended with [Oley][Oleic] at concentrations of 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 wt%. Friction measurements using a ball-on-disk setup reveal a substantial 58.9% reduction in friction and a 30.6% reduction in wear when [Oley][Oleic] is combined with bio-oil pyrolysed with a microwave power of 800 W. To maintain a low coefficient of friction (CoF) and wear for [Oley][Oleic], it is imperative to aim for an optimal DEP:FAME ratio in the bio-oil of approximately 2.0, within concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 wt%. The study highlights the complex tribological balance among viscosity, load-bearing capacity, and the chemical nature of bio-oil components, contributing to enhanced lubricity. As industries increasingly seek eco-friendly lubrication, this study offers a valuable knowledge base for developing sustainable and high-performance lubricants derived from renewable biomass sources.