Characterizing a lubricant additive for 1,3,4-tri-(2-octyldodecyl) cyclopentane: Computational study and experimental verification

In order to increase the life of spacecraft, it is important to improve the comprehensive lubrication performance. Multiple alkylated cyclopentane (MAC) lubricants are presently gaining wide acceptance for actual space applications; adding extreme pressure additive is a strategy to improve lubrication performance. In this study, taking 1,3,4-tri-(2-octyldodecyl) cyclopentane as base oil, tricresol phosphate (traditional additive) and tri-(2-octyldodecyl) phosphate (developmental additive) have been screened computationally for compatibility, shear film forming and energy dissipation. Theoretical results indicate that (a) tricresol phosphate additive is not suited for addition to 1,3,4-tri-(2-octyldodecyl) cyclopentane lubricant due to limited compatibility; (b) tri-(2-octyldodecyl) phosphate is an excellent lubricant additive due to its perfect compatibility, ease of forming a shear film on the surface of friction pairs, higher strength, and low energy dissipation; and (c) lubrication occurs through the solid-liquid composite lubrication mechanism. These theoretical results were confirmed experimentally.