Surface modified indium nanoparticles were prepared by a simple and rapid process from bulk indium via ultrasound dispersion. The morphology and structure of synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, XRD, XPS and FTIR. The results show that the morphology of indium nanoparticles is spherical and the structure of indium nanoparticles is the tetragonal phase. The surface of indium nanoparticles was coated by 2 ethyl hexanoic acid, which could almost hold back oxidation of the indium nanoparticles. In addition, the tribological property of indium nanoparticles as additives in oil was evaluated on a four-ball tester and the results show that indium nanoparticles exhibit good performance in wear.
