High Thermally Conductive Carbon Nano Grease

G. Christensen, H. Younes, G. Hong, D. Lou, H. Hong, C. Widener, R. Hrabe
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology,
United States

Keywords: carbon nano grease, carbon nanomaterial, hydrogen bond

Summary:

Grease made from carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers have shown superior thermal conductivity. The unexpected results in this paper also lead to an improved way to significantly enhance the thermal conductivity of greases while reducing the nanotube loading percentage. The new discovery here is that hydrogen bonding between nanotube and oil is the key element for a good conductivity performance. The introduction of hydrogen bonding in any form into the grease increases thermal conductivity. The grease structure is created by the sole thickeners which are carbon nanotubes and nanofibers. This makes the grease unique and high performance. Up to 300% thermal conductivity enhancement is observed in the system.