Preparation and Performance Study of High-Performance Conductive Grease Induced by PGPR-LHP Synergistic Effect

Electrical contact devices exert a significant influence on the performance of multiple aspects within mechanical systems. In the context of the extensive utilization of electrical contact components across diverse domains, conductive grease assumes an indispensable function. Nonetheless, the conductive grease in current use encounters issues like ablation and wear at the interface of friction pairs. In this study, castor oil was used as the base oil, glyceryl tristearate (GTS) as the thickener, conductive polyaniline (PANI) polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) and lecithin high potency (LHP) as additives to prepare a complex conductive grease with a wrapping structure and strong load-bearing capacity. The synergistic interaction of the two surfactants strengthened the adhesion force at the interface between the grease and the friction pair, which promoted the establishment of a lubricating film, thereby effectively reducing the friction and wear of the friction pair. The outstanding electrical conductivity of PANI, coupled with the improved dispersibility of PANI within the lubrication system enabled by the utilization of surfactants, substantially enhanced the electrical contact performance of the grease. Under a current of 5 A and contact force of 0.834 GPa, compared to DG-1 commercial conductive grease, the wear rate and friction coefficient of the complex conductive grease were reduced by 94.72% and 40.98%, respectively, while the contact resistance was decreased by 63.53%. This type of complex conductive grease enhanced the contact state between the grease and the friction pair through the use of surfactants. During the friction process, it could release the warpped structure, thereby improving anti-friction, anti-wear and conductivity. This grease showed promising application prospects in the field of current-carrying friction.