Carbon Nanotubes–Gr Inspired by Geckos’ Setae Structure with Enhanced Tribological Properties

The setae structure of geckos’ toes can create a strong adhesion force, allowing geckos to climb almost vertical walls. Inspired by this, carbon nanotubes–graphite (CNTs-Gr) was prepared by microwave technology, where CNTs like the setae structure grew in situ on the surface of Gr flakes. Compared to the Gr, the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear rate of CNTs-Gr decreased by 44% and 46%, reaching 0.10 and 1.18 × 10−5 mm3·N−1·m−1, respectively. Even if the load increased from 5 N to 35 N, the CNTs-Gr maintained a low and stable COF of 0.12. The excellent tribological properties were attributed to the unique setae structure of CNTs-Gr. This structure enabled the adhesion force of CNTs-Gr to the worn surface to increase threefold, improving the coverage of the lubricating film and significantly enhancing the lubricating film’s pressure resistance. The gecko setae structure proposed in this article provides researchers with a new idea for designing lubricants with excellent lubrication performance and high load-bearing capacity.