Nickel nanoparticles with sizes from 12 to 34 nm were obtained by pyrolysis of nickel formate. They have been used as additives to the low-temperature grease (CIATIM-201). Studies of tribotechnical properties have shown that the CIATIM-201 with nickel additives at concentrations of 0.05 wt. % -0.2 wt. % has the best antiwear and extreme pressure properties in comparison with pure grease. Friction surfaces were characterised by the methods of atomic-force microscopy AFM (PHYWE), 3D optical microscopy and indentation tests. The improvement of tribotechnical properties of grease is related to the process of micro-polishing, which leads to the formation of a structural layer with a high modulus of elasticity on the friction surface.