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This paper investigates how nano-SiO 2 interacts with NBR to affect the tribological properties of water-lubricated NBR-based composites using the Rtec friction and wear tester and the molecular dynamics simulation method. The surface-modified nano-SiO 2 (SiO 2(TESPT)) particles were prepared by modifying the hydroxyl groups on the surface of nano-SiO 2 with Silicon 69 (TESPT), and cast copper alloy (ZCuSn10Zn2) was used as the counterface material in the friction test and wear test. The results showed that different interfacial interplay between nano-SiO 2 and NBR makes for distinct wear mechanisms of NBR-based composites. With weak interface bonding between nano-SiO 2 and NBR, NBR/SiO 2 can easily get worn as nano-SiO 2 particles detach from the matrix during the wear process, leaving pits and cracks on the worn surface. Instead, SiO 2(TESPT) has stronger interface bonding with the matrix, which can prevent the detachment of SiO 2(TESPT) , restrict the movement of molecular chains in NBR, and reduce the temperature peak of the friction pair. SiO 2(TESPT) exerts a dual influence on the tribological properties of NBR: while significantly improving the wear resistance of NBR, it can also notably increase the friction coefficient of the composite. • TESPT was used to modify the surface of nano-SiO 2 to enhance its interfacial bonding with NBR-based composites. • Strong interfacial bonding has dual effects on tribological properties of NBR-based composites. • Strong interfacial bonding can improve the wear property of NBR-based composites. • The study reveals the tribological mechanism of NBR enhanced by stronger interfacial interaction between nano-SiO 2 and NBR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]