Lubrication
Articles tagged with Lubrication
Cracking the code of force-driven chemistry
Researchers developed a theoretical model that accurately describes the relationship between mechanical stress and chemical reactions, resolving discrepancies in previous studies. The new model helps predict mechanochemical reactions, promising for greener manufacturing and lubricant design.
Rolling particles make suspensions more fluid
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a method to measure frictional forces between single particles in suspensions. By understanding these microscopic interactions, they can optimize suspension flow characteristics and prevent dramatic thickening.
Extremely low friction thanks to new solid state lubricant
Researchers at TU Wien developed COK-47, a powdery solid substance with remarkable capabilities, by combining organic and inorganic chemistry. In humid environments, the material forms a tribofilm that ensures extremely low friction, making it highly interesting for industry applications.
Revolutionary lubricant prevents friction at high temperatures
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a new solid lubricating mechanism that can reduce friction in machinery at extremely high temperatures. The novel coating has the potential to make components from rockets to semiconductors more safe, durable, and cost-effective.
Plant proteins could be radical alternative to oil-based super lubricants
Researchers from the University of Leeds and international partners have created an oil-free super-lubricant from potato proteins, achieving near zero friction. The material uses natural protein building blocks with a lower carbon footprint, opening doors for sustainable biomedical applications and low-calorie foods.
Multifunctional droplet manipulation technology combining femtosecond laser-designed slippery surface and electrostatic interactions
A new technology combines femtosecond laser-designed lubricated slippery surfaces with electrostatic interactions to manipulate droplets. This allows for diverse working conditions and functions, including driving droplets on inclined surfaces, manipulating various liquids, and sorting particles.
Having COVID-19 and Long COVID can impact women’s sex lives
A Boston University study of over 2,000 cisgender women found that COVID-19 can impair sexual function, with long COVID having a detrimental effect on arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and pain scores. Women with long COVID had markedly worse sexual well-being, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to address this taboo topic.
To spread or slide? Scientists uncover how foams are spread on surfaces
Researchers found that foam spreading changes with scraping speed and surface affinity, leading to different patterns on hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces. The study's findings apply to various soft materials, including foams, paints, and coatings.
Effect of deferoxamine and ferrostatin-1 on salivary gland dysfunction in ovariectomized rats
This study examined the effects of deferoxamine and ferrostatin-1 on salivary gland dysfunction in ovariectomized rats. The researchers found that these compounds reduced inflammation, fibrosis, and improved salivary gland function, suggesting potential treatments for postmenopausal xerostomia.
Why chocolate feels so good – it is all down to lubrication
A team of scientists at the University of Leeds has decoded the physical process behind chocolate's sensation in the mouth. They found that fat plays a key role in creating the smooth emulsion, and by understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop healthier luxury chocolates with the same feel and texture.
Jet engine lubrication oils are a major source of ultrafine particles
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have found that jet engine lubrication oils are a significant source of ultrafine particles. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger inflammatory reactions, potentially contributing to cardiovascular diseases.
Advances in research on surface/interface friction behaviors of the metal cutting process
A systematic review of cutting friction behaviors in the metal cutting process reveals its significant impact on tool wear and surface quality. The study contributes to the development of high-quality cutting technology by understanding cutting friction mechanisms, simulation technologies, and anti-friction strategies.
Electrostatic atomization minimum quantity lubrication machining: From mechanism to application
The study reviews electrostatic atomization minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) mechanism and applications, highlighting its benefits in clean cutting and biolubricant development. Researchers propose future directions for improving coordination parameters and equipment integration.
Computationally predicting where the wear will occur in engines
A team at Tohoku University created an analysis method to predict where wear will occur in engine piston pins. The breakthrough aims to limit wear and tear on machinery components and make them more fuel-efficient.
New software platform advances understanding of the surface finish of manufactured components
Scientists developed a software platform to analyze surfaces, creating digital twins that predict material properties like adhesion and durability. The contact.engineering platform standardizes procedure and facilitates open science, allowing users to share measurements and collaborate.
Big splash: Scientists present a new model for predicting droplet splashing behavior on solid surfaces
Scientists develop a new model to predict when a droplet will splash upon hitting a solid surface, considering factors like wettability and roughness. The study could enable advances in agriculture, epidemiology, and printing technology.
Model pinpoints glaciers at risk of collapse due to climate change
A University of California, Berkeley scientist has created a model that predicts the most vulnerable glaciers in the Arctic and Antarctic are thick and fast-moving ones. The new model incorporates the effects of meltwater lubricating their downhill flow, suggesting these glaciers are more sensitive to climate change.
Ultrasonic tech to develop safer railway track lubrication measurement system
A novel solution uses ultrasonic technology to detect critical form of lubrication between a railway wheel and the track, reducing maintenance costs and improving safety. The automated vehicle-mounted system will communicate presence and absence of lubrication to Network Rail.
An ice-inspired lubricant improves osteoarthritis symptoms in rats
Researchers develop ice-inspired lubricant that enhances lubrication and reduces friction and inflammation in a rat model of osteoarthritis. The treatment, which uses microfluidic technology to create drug-loaded particles, shows promise as a potential solution for joint pain and degeneration.
UTA researcher developing oil-free air bearings that operate at higher temperatures
Daejong Kim is developing foil bearings for small engines used in aerospace applications, reducing maintenance costs and increasing efficiency. Hybrid foil bearings increase load capacity dramatically compared to traditional foil bearings.
A patented solution for dry mouth relief and food product development
A team of scientists from the University of Leeds has developed a new hydrogel to act as an alternative to saliva without additional lipid content. The formulation can also replicate lubricating properties in food products, providing a potential solution for dry mouth therapy and non-obesogenic nutritional technologies.
Decoding the fundamental mechanisms of human salivary lubrication
Researchers unveil molecular mechanisms governing saliva's lubrication properties, resolving distinct roles played by mucin- and non-mucinous proteins. Hydrated mucin forms a mesh-like nano-reservoir trapping water molecules, while positively-charged small molecular proteins aid boundary lubrication.
Developing a model critical in creating better devices
A new computational model developed by Preeya Achari predicts the behavior of water on the surface of hexagonal boron nitride, a compound used in cosmetic products. The model provides more control over devices made with this material and water, leading to improved performance.
Interferential current offers solution to painful sex
A new study compares interferential current to vaginal estradiol creme in treating sexual complaints of women with premature ovarian insufficiency taking hormones. Interferential current improves lubrication, pain, orgasm, and overall satisfaction.
Perking up and crimping the 'bristles' of polyelectrolyte brushes
Researchers discovered that polyelectrolyte brush bristles collapse due to the addition of powerful electrolytes but can be restored with gentler ions. This study increases understanding of these chemical brushes, which have potential applications in medicine and industry, including lubrication and medical devices.
Ice shapes the landslide landscape on Mars
A new study explores the impact of ice on Martian landslides, finding similarities with Earth's ice-lubricated landslides and demonstrating how ice influences shape and velocity. The research uses glacial morphology and remote sensing measurements to model landslide dynamics.
Blocks of ice demonstrate levitated and directed motion
A team led by Stéphane Dorbolo found that a disk of ice becomes highly mobile due to a levitating layer of water between it and the smooth surface on which it rests and melts. By controlling the flow dynamics of the melted ice, they can direct its motion.
Increasing oil's performance with crumpled graphene balls
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered crumpled graphene balls as a promising lubricant additive that outperforms some commercial lubricants in reducing friction and wear on steel surfaces. The additive is self-dispersing without surfactants and has high performance sensitivity to concentration, making it more stable.
New name for symptoms associated with menopause
Experts agree on a new term, Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), to describe the complex symptoms associated with declining estrogen levels. GSM encompasses genital dryness, sexual discomfort, and urinary issues, providing a more accurate and publicly acceptable definition.
Melting water's lubricating effect on glaciers has only 'minor' role in future sea-level rise
Computer modeling reveals that melt-water lubrication will contribute only 8mm to sea-level rise by 2200, less than 5% of total projected contribution from Greenland ice sheet. Melting water can actually lead to a lowering of sea-level in some cases.
Women with diabetes more likely to experience sexual dissatisfaction
A UCSF study found that women with diabetes are more likely to report low overall sexual satisfaction compared to non-diabetic women. Insulin-treated diabetic women were at higher risk for lubrication and orgasm complications, while end-organ complications such as heart disease and peripheral neuropathy also impacted sexual function.
VTT researcher finds explanation for friction
A VTT researcher has provided an explanation for sliding friction between solid objects, attributing it to surface energy of materials. The discovery enables quantitative calculation of the friction coefficient and potential manipulation of friction by selecting specific surface materials.
Hips that function better and last longer
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that graphitic carbon is a key element in the lubricating layer of metal-on-metal hip implants, reducing friction and wear. This finding offers a target for designing new materials to improve implant performance.
Not your mother's birth control, same troubles
A new Indiana University study found that hormonal birth control can still hamper women's sexual satisfaction, including arousal, lubrication, and orgasm. The research involved over 1,100 women using different forms of contraception and suggests that non-hormonal options like lubricants may help alleviate negative effects.
Queen's University professor uses nanotechnology to prolong machine and engine life
Guojun Liu's nanotechnology discovery reduces friction in automobile engines by up to 55%, increasing energy efficiency. The innovation has the potential to improve machine life across various industries beyond automotive.
Knee injury causes decrease in lubrication, has implications for arthritis
Researchers developed a simple test to quantify loss of lubrication after knee injury, which has important implications for preventing osteoarthritis. The study found that lubricin completely disappeared from rabbits in three weeks and greater friction was observed in patients with injured knees.
Tiny machines need even tinier lubricants
Researchers have found that alcohols, which are not typically considered good lubricants, can work effectively in tiny machines. The discovery could lead to the development of gas-delivered liquid thin films that regenerate sensors and allow recycling of air bag mechanisms, improving efficiency and reducing power dissipation.
Ceramic Lubricants, Ashless Fuel Additives Developed At Virginia Tech
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed compounds that reduce wear and friction for ceramics and steel, saving up to 99% of wear and 40-50% of friction. The technology has been licensed for further development by Triad Investors Corp.