Tribological performances of 3-(N,N-dialkyl dithiocarbamate-y1) propionic acids

Three kind of water-soluble additives, 3-(N, N- dialkyl dithiocarbamate-y1) propionic acid, were synthesized. Their tribological performances when add ed to water were evaluated on a four-ball tester and a ring-on-block machin e. Results indicate that the hydrocarbon chain length of these compounds ha s significant influence on their tribological properties. When the number o f carbon atom in alkyl group is equal to (or more than) 4, the compounds ex hibit excellent load-carrying capacity, antiwear property and weld load. Th e antiwear action mechanisms of the propionic acid compounds can be ascribe d to the formation of adsorption film and chemical reaction film. The coope ration action of these films plays an important role in the prevention of t ribological failure.