An in lubro investigation of lyotropic liquid crystals - a biologically inspired novel green low friction additive

Wastage of resources resulting from high friction and wear accounts for up to 6% of the GDP and, at a time where 'green' engineering practises are demanded by public opinion there is a growing urgency for the development of the next generation of ultra-low friction lubricants with a low toxicity and long service life.
The layered, lamellar phase of lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) display promising tribological properties possessing low shear strength between layers and, solid like elasticity and high load carrying capacity perpendicular to their layered structure. Furthermore, LLC structure, and hence tribological properties are variable under the influence of pressure, shear, temperature, and electric/magnetic fields.
By investigating the properties of LLCs in EHD contacts this project aims to elucidate their mechanism of action. The project will use the recently developed microscope set-up of the EHD Tribometer (PCS Instruments) with crossed polariser, waveplate and video camera which can collect real time, high contrast videos of LLC in and around the contact, successfully demonstrated with Oleic Acid/TEPA.
This setup will be further altered to mimic closer the tribological conditions found in biological systems hence making it suitable to study LLC forming molecules like those found in synovial fluid. The results of this study can also be used to develop novel low friction lubricant additives for industrial applications.