The Application of Polyvinylpyrrolidone as a Modifier of Tribological Properties of Lubricating Greases Based on Linseed Oil

The paper presents the research results on the relations between additive content and tribological, rheological, and oxidizing properties of lubricating greases. The greases were based on linseed oil, thickened with amorphous silica Aerosil^® and modified with different concentration of polyvinylpyrrolidone. The greases were tested tribologically according to the test on T-02 testing machine and referred to the unmodified control. The evaluation of tribological properties was based on the following parameters: welding load, scuffing load, limiting load of wear, limiting load of scuffing, and limiting pressure of seizure. The results of tribological research revealed the most promising impact of the 3% addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone. All of the crucial parameters were improved in comparison to the unmodified control grease. The spectral analyses revealed that some of the components undergo oxidation during mechanical forces, leading to the formation of the oxidized organic compounds. These substances generated a layer, counteracting the wear of lubricated tribosystem. The improved resistance to oxidation of the tested lubricants with polyvinylpyrrolidone can be explained by the presence of highly hydrophilic pyrrolidone groups and hydrophobic alkyl group in polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) molecule. These compounds combine with hydrocarbon chains of linseed oil and act synergistically with the silicon dioxide molecules. The introduction of polyvinylpyrrolidone caused the improvement in dynamic viscosity at lower shear rates and a significant change of viscosity in low temperatures. An increased value of the yield point of the tested lubricating compositions after introduction of the additive was also observed.