In situ Synthesis and Lubrication of PbS Nanoparticles in Lamellar Liquid Crystal

The partial phase diagram of the Triton X-100/C₁₀H₂₁OH/H₂O system was determined. PbS nanoparticles were synthesized in solvent layer of Triton X-100/C₁₀H₂₁OH/H₂O lamellar liquid crystal. The size of PbS nanoparticles was about 8 nm and limited by the thickness of the solvent layer. Lubricities of the mixed system of Triton X-100/C₁₀H₂₁OH/H₂O lamellar liquid crystal and PbS nanoparticles were determined. The results showed that the lamellar liquid crystal and the mixed system showed higher load carrying capacity relative to the commercial grease. They are potential lubricants for Al alloy, especially at high load.