Nano-titania and carbon nanotube-filled rubber seed oil as machining fluids

Abstract

Machinists face persistent challenges in managing heat dissipation during cutting operations. To address this issue in an environmentally conscious manner, there is a need for nanofluids crafted from sustainable, eco-friendly materials. This study delves into developing nanocomposites (NCs) of nano-titania (nTiO2) derived from Terminalia catappa leaves and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in varying compositions (nTiO2/CNTs: 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50 wt%). These NCs underwent comprehensive characterization using techniques such as BET, HRSEM/EDX, HRTEM, XRD, and FTIR. The aim was to evaluate their stability as potential fillers in rubber seed oils (RSOs) for machining operations. Furthermore, the homogenous NC samples in RSO revealed distinct polycentric rings, indicating the dispersion of nTiO2 in CNTs, forming Ti–O–C and Ti–O–Ti networks. XRD analysis identified anatase diffraction peaks, though the CNT peaks were less distinct due to overlap with TiO2 peaks. This successful fusion addresses challenges related to individual fillers, ensuring stable nanosuspension formulation. The TiO2/CNTs (50/50 wt%) NC emerged as particularly effective in dissipating heat from machining interfaces. The study highlights the nanomaterials' high thermal stability, complementing the abundant unsaturated fatty acids in RSOs to create advanced nanofluids for improved machining. The substantial pore volume and stable nanosuspension formation observed are attributed to the large surface area aiding heat removal. Ultimately, the reinforced RSO with nTiO2/CNTs shows promising potential for safe and efficient machining applications.