Supramolecular Polymer Gel Lubricant with Excellent Mechanical Stability and Tribological Performances

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Tribology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Improved machinery lubricants can significantly reduce environmental impact and enhance fuel efficiency.
• Supramolecular chemistry offers novel approaches to lubricant design through self-assembly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize a new family of supramolecular polymer gel lubricants with urea groups.
• To evaluate the performance of these novel gel lubricants compared to low molecular weight counterparts.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of supramolecular polymer gels via self-assembling noncovalent bonds.
• Characterization using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, NMR, FTIR, rheometry, friction, and wear testing.
• Comparative analysis of macromolecular versus low molecular weight gel lubricants.

Main Results:

• Supramolecular polymer gels based on macromolecules exhibited enhanced mechanical properties and viscoelasticity due to cooperative covalent and noncovalent bonding.
• Macromolecular gels formed thicker adsorbed films, correlating positively with improved lubricating properties.
• These gels demonstrated superior thermal reversibility, creep recovery, and thixotropic properties.

Conclusions:

• Supramolecular polymer gels based on macromolecules represent a significant advancement in lubricant technology.
• Their enhanced properties offer superior lubrication, reduced environmental pollution from oil creep, and improved fuel economy.