Metal Bonded Fullerenes as an Additive in Lubricants

Abstract: The fullerene (C60) molecules having the ability to roll against the surfaces contributes to its lubricating property. The high impact strength and shear strength of fullerenes makes it a better lubricant. Metal bonded fullerenes are stable. The bond breaks upon application of pressure due to moving parts causing shear between the molecules breaking the weak metal bonds. The bond breaks making the fullerenes free to move thus reducing friction between the moving parts. As the fullerenes are electrophilic they attract any electron rich compound and again forms a weak bond which breaks upon application of force thus protecting the fullerene molecules being washed off when the machine is not in use. This increases the efficiency of the machine reducing friction also reducing the wastage of lubricant.