Energy and fuel losses may be reduced through the latest Pixelligent Researc.
In a move to improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, Pixelligent Technologies has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Argonne National Laboratory, part of the US Department of Energy.
Pixelligent aims to establish whether its advanced nanocrystal dispersions are reducing friction in engines and drivetrains. Detailed data on the friction and wear properties of the company's nano technology will be provided by Argonne expertise, specifically looking at the blend into formulated and unformulated lubricant fluids.
The research should allow Pixelligent to perfect its nanocrystal and capping agent technologies with a view to commercializing them.
With around a 10-15% daily loss of petroleum used in transportation alone in the US, low-friction, resource-conserving lubricants developed using nanocrystals could achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption according to Pixelligent. The country's 250 million vehicle legacy market could be a particular beneficiary of this research, allowing huge petroleum savings.
It is hoped the collaboration between government research laboratories and private sector companies may speed up the commercialization of across a wide range of technologies.