Researchers have developed a greaseless protective lubricant.
Greaseless lube being sprayed Image: INM |
Combatting friction which causes machine wear has been achieved by researchers at the INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials. The scientists have developed a functional coating which protects against corrosion and is suitable for metals and metal alloys such as steel, aluminum or magnesium.
The composition and structure of the coating includes platelet-like solid lubricants and platelet-like particles in a binder.
Carsten Becker-Willinger, Head of the Nanomers Program Division explains: "When this mixture is applied to a surface, it produces a well-ordered structure in which these various particles are arranged in a roof tile pattern. This forms a so-called transfer film between the low friction coating and the object through which surfaces can slide with the minimum of friction."
The roof tile pattern formed by the lubricant also acts as a barrier which prevents moisture or salts penetrating metal sufaces, thus preventing corrosion.
The bonded coating can be applied using a variety of processes including spraying or dipping.