Surface forces mediated by novel polymers under tribological contact

Friction can be reduced by lowering the viscosity of the oil, but this generally results in an increase in wear of the metal surface. It is known that certain surfactants and polymers can reduce friction whilst maintaining wear performance. The structures formed at the solid-liquid interface and under such tribological conditions are not currently understood. This PhD will use a range of bespoke synthesised polymers (with controlled variation in polymer architecture and chemistry) to determine layer structure, thickness and properties. The programme will include use of surface forces apparatus (SFA) established in Bristol to directly measure the surface forces and friction mediated by polymer layers under confinement and shear. Complementarily, X-ray and neutron reflection will be employed to study the interfacial structure of the polymer layer.