Conductivity and Tribological Properties of Carbon Nanotubes in Grease

Conductive grease were prepared by using polytetrafluoroethylene as thickening agent, oil soluble polyether as base oil, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as additive. The volume resistivity of grease was measured by using a volume surface resistance tester. The morphologies of worn surfaces of the steel discs were examined using a scanning electron microscope. The elements of worn surface were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results show that in comparison with grease containing carbon black, grease using CNTs as additive had better lubricating properties and lower volume resistivity.