The Structure-Function Relationship between the Molecular Structures of Two Heterocyclic Organic Compounds and Their Corrosion Inhibiting, Friction-Reduction and Anti-Wear Performances in Ionic Liquids

The corrosion inhibiting, friction-reduction and anti-wear effects of HMIMCl ionic liquids (IL) system with two heterocyclic organic compounds, benzotriazole (BTA) and saccharin (SAC), on bronze were investigated by electrochemical and tribological tests. Scanning electron microscope was used to characterize corrosion and worn areas on bronze surface. Results show that adsorbed BTA layers on the bronze surface reduced corrosion caused by IL and prohibited the severe pitting corrosion attached by Cl^- of HMIMCl. Meanwhile, IL oil samples with BTA displayed a lower friction coefficient and wear rate compared to that of IL with SAC. Moreover, in the tribological test, the oil containing SAC extended the run-in period and exacerbated the wear of bronze. In conclusion, BTA was an excellent additive for IL system, with outstanding corrosion inhibition, good friction-reduction and anti-wear performances. While SAC, had limited effect of corrosion inhibiting, friction-reduction and anti-wear on bronze.