Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the Tribological and Thermal Performance of Lubricating Engine Oils

Bahaa M. Kamel; Magdy Naeem Awad; Ahmad O. Moaaz; Farag Abdullah

doi:10.53797/icccmjssh.v5isp.15.2026

Authors

Bahaa M. Kamel National Research Centre, Mechanical Engineering Department, Giza 12622, Egypt ; Korean Egyptian Faculty for Industry and Energy Technology, Beni-Suef Technological University, Beni-Suef 62521, Egypt
Magdy Naeem Awad Mechatronics Engineering Department, Canadian International College, 5th Settlement, Cairo, Egypt ; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Smart Village Campus, Giza, Egypt
Ahmad O. Moaaz Mechanical Engineering department- Faculty of Engineering- Beni-Suef University ; Korean Egyptian Faculty for Industry and Energy Technology, Beni-Suef Technological University, Beni-Suef 62521, Egypt
Farag Abdullah Researcher, Mattaria Technological College, Mattaria , Cairo, Egypt.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53797/icccmjssh.v5isp.15.2026

Keywords:

Tribological properties, thermal performance, lubricating oil, multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), nano additives enhancement

Abstract

Lubricating oils play a vital role in reducing wear and friction among moving parts such as gears, shafts, and engines. The evaluation of these lubricants relies heavily on their tribological and thermal properties. The addition of nano additives to lubricant oils markedly improves their anti-wear performance, decreases friction, and enhances thermal characteristics. This research examines the tribological and thermal properties of 15W30 base oil mixed with different concentrations of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 wt.%). This study is pioneering in exploring the effects of using MWCNTs on the properties of lubricant oils. Tribological assessments were performed using a four-ball apparatus while additional properties such as, flash point, pour point, and thermal conductivity were measured and compared to the base oil. The findings indicated that the nano additives led to a reduction in wear scar diameter by 60%. Furthermore, enhancements in flash point 10%, thermal conductivity 67%, and pour point 28% were noted in comparison to the base oil. Finally, the use of CNTs significantly improved the overall performance of 5W30 engine oil.

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