Christensen G., Grablander T., Bailey C., Lou D., Hong H.
Novum Nano, US
Keywords: boron nitride, carbon nanotube, engine oil, fuel efficiency, green oil
Typical engine oils used in internal combustion gas and diesel engines are not high in thermal conductivity and are limited in friction performance, which together limit engine efficiency and longevity. Carbon nanotubes and hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets allow for extreme friction reduction, even when compared to high performance synthetic motor oils. The nanotubes and nanosheets also improve thermal conductivity, in turn increasing engine efficiency. Coupon testing was initially performed to refine the specific nanomaterials employed as well as the concentrations of constituents. Tests were performed by Falex corporation using an ASTM G77 Block on Ring test aparatus and revealed up to a 47% wear reduction and a 12% friction reduction compared to Mobil 1 full synthetic. A wide variety of engine tests were performed to understand the influence of the oil on a more complicated system. Engine testing showed significant improvements in fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency improvements up to 30% in testing of engines ranging from small lightly loaded to heavily loaded diesel engines. An average fuel efficiency improvement of 18% was achieved in diesel engine equipped trucks. Based on this work, the typical application is expected to gain upwards of 10% in fuel efficiency. This is of coarse dependent on the engine type and loading, but the evidence suggests that the highest loaded engines show the largest gain in performance. In addition, horsepower gains up to 11% and torque increases up to 12% were observed during testing. The unique method employed facilitated the optimization of engine oils for thermal conductivity and lubricity, resulting in a substantial increase in engine efficiency and performance. It is anticipated that this reduced friction and heating of engine hardware will also increase engine longevity. The result will be fuel savings and lower life cycle cost for internal combustion engines. There are currently 32 vehicles that have operated for a significant amount of time with the oil additive. These include gasoline, turbocharged gasoline, and turbodiesel engines. All have shown significant improvement in efficiency and performance.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: TechConnect Briefs 2021
Published: October 18, 2021
Pages: 267 - 270
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topics: Catalysis, Energy Storage
ISBN: 978-0-578-99550-2