Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026
07:12
Determining Tribocorrosion Rate and Wear-Corrosion Synergy of Bulk and Thin Film Aluminum Alloys
Published on: September 11, 2018
Green tribology: principles, research areas and challenges
Michael Nosonovsky1, Bharat Bhushan
1College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA.
Summary
Green tribology minimizes friction and wear using sustainable methods, reducing or eliminating traditional lubricants. This emerging field integrates biomimetics, eco-friendly lubrication, and renewable energy applications for environmental benefit.
Area of Science:
- Tribology
- Green Engineering
- Green Chemistry
Background:
- Introduces green tribology, defining its scope and relationship with established tribological fields and 'green' disciplines.
- Discusses the 12 principles of green tribology, focusing on friction and wear minimization, lubrication alternatives, sustainable practices, biomimetics, surface engineering, and environmental considerations.
Discussion:
- Explores three core areas of green tribology: biomimetics in tribology, environmentally benign lubrication strategies, and the tribology of renewable energy systems.
- Highlights the integration of these areas as a key challenge for advancing this novel research domain.
Key Insights:
- Formulates 12 principles for green tribology, emphasizing reduced environmental impact through sustainable material and process choices.
- Defines key research areas including biomimicry, biodegradable lubricants, and tribological applications in renewable energy.
Outlook:
- Addresses the challenges and outlines future research directions for green tribology.
- Stresses the need for interdisciplinary integration to realize the full potential of green tribology in sustainable technological development.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Dry Friction
Dry friction occurs between two solid surfaces in contact as they attempt to move relative to one another. In daily life, dry friction is encountered in various forms, such as when walking on the ground, sliding an object across a table, or rubbing hands together. Despite its ubiquity, the underlying mechanisms behind dry friction are not readily visible.
To illustrate this concept, imagine a wooden crate resting on a rough, non-uniform horizontal surface. When an external force is applied to...
To illustrate this concept, imagine a wooden crate resting on a rough, non-uniform horizontal surface. When an external force is applied to...
01:24Bearings: Problem Solving
Understanding the calculations and concepts related to double-collar bearings is essential for engineers and designers to optimize the performance of these components in various applications. By analyzing the bearing under different conditions, one can ensure that it can withstand the forces and moments experienced during operation. This knowledge enables better decision-making when designing and selecting bearings for specific purposes and configurations. Consider a double-collar bearing with...
01:27Types of Friction Problems
Friction is an essential concept in physics, engineering, and everyday life. It is the force that opposes the relative motion or tendency of such motion between two surfaces in contact. One of the most common types of friction encountered in various applications is dry friction. Dry friction problems can be broadly categorized into three types, each with unique characteristics and challenges.
The first type of dry friction problem involves situations where there is no apparent impending motion.
The first type of dry friction problem involves situations where there is no apparent impending motion.
01:23Journal Bearings
Journal bearings are mechanical components that support and provide lateral stability to rotating shafts and axles. They are crucial in reducing friction, wear, and vibration in machinery such as engines, turbines, and pumps. The principle behind journal bearings is forming a thin lubricant film between the bearing surface and the rotating shaft, which minimizes direct contact and reduces frictional forces.
To better understand the concept of journal bearings, consider a rope winch with dry or...
To better understand the concept of journal bearings, consider a rope winch with dry or...
01:21Characteristics of Dry Friction
Dry friction occurs when two solid surfaces slide against each other without any lubrication or fluid present. It causes resistance when pushing objects along a surface, like a gardener pushing a wheelbarrow. The force applied to move the cart causes dry friction between the wheel and the ground.
Before the wheelbarrow starts moving, the static frictional force acts tangentially to the contact surface, opposing the force that is about to induce the motion. This frictional force prevents the...
Before the wheelbarrow starts moving, the static frictional force acts tangentially to the contact surface, opposing the force that is about to induce the motion. This frictional force prevents the...
01:21Friction: Problem Solving
Friction is an essential force that influences the motion of objects in daily life. Depending on the situation, it can be either beneficial or problematic. Consider a bus with a mass of three megagrams and its center of mass at a specific point, moving along a banked road at a constant speed. The coefficient of static friction between the tires and the road is 0.5. Find the maximum angle of the banked road at which the bus would not slip or tip.
Initially, a visual representation of the...
Initially, a visual representation of the...