Volume 48, No 1, 2026, Pages 54-71
Download full text in PDFSynergistic Effects of Palm Methyl Ester and Cellulose Nanocrystals on Enhancing Friction and Wear Under Grease Lubrication
Authors:
Zahrul Fuadi 
,
Rudi Kurniawan ,
Ritzky Fachry ,
Ikramullah Muhammad ,
Samsul Rizal ,
Dieter Rahmadiawan ,
Shih-Chen Shi ,
Mohamad Ali Ahmad ,
Irwansyah Irwansyahr
DOI: 10.24874/ti.1960.06.25.09
Received: 18 June 2025
Revised: 7 August 2025
Accepted: 30 September2025
Published: 15 March 2026
Abstract:
This study investigates the tribological properties of eco-friendly grease lubricants formulated from palm methyl ester (PME) that incorporate cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) particles as additives. Two grease specimens were prepared: one containing CNC particles and the other without. The performance of these grease specimens was evaluated using a reciprocating pin-on-disk tribometer, with AISI 52100 steel serving as the friction material. The friction and wear characteristics of the self-mated AISI 52100 tribo-pair lubricated with the grease specimens—both with and without CNC nanoparticles—were compared to those lubricated with a commercial grease. The results show that the performance of PME grease containing CNC nanoparticles is comparable to that of commercial grease with tungsten additives. Furthermore, the tribo-pair exhibited improved friction and wear characteristics when lubricated with PME grease containing CNC nanoparticles, as opposed to being lubricated with PME grease without additives. Microscopic analysis indicates a significantly smoother and flatter surface of the contact interface when lubricated with the grease mixed with CNC particles. EDX analysis also reveals the presence of an aluminum oxide layer at the contact interface of the tribo-pair when lubricated with PME grease containing CNC particles, appears to be responsible for protecting the contact area from severe friction and wear.
Keywords:
Cellulose nanocrystals, Grease, Coefficient of friction, Lubricant additives
