The research at the Tribology Lubrication and Coating Laboratory (TLCL) is focused on gaining a fundamental understanding of the mechanism of lubrication with new and innovative anti wear additives. In addition, the role played by other additives such as detergents, antioxidants and friction modifiers on the wear and stability oils are also being examined. Nanoscale properties including surfaces chemistry of tribofilms and nanomechanical properties of tribofilms are being examined using techniques such as Transmission electron microscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption near edge spectrocopy among other. Nanomechanical properties of tribofilms are being studied using such techniques as nanoindentation, nanoscratch and nanowear. In the area of coating we are developing high performance coating for corrosion protection of Al and Fe alloys that are less toxic than the current formulations in the market place.

Keywords: Tribology, Lubrication, Wear. Antioxidants, Antiwear, Nanoindentation, Nanowear, Nanoscratch, Tribofilms, Engine oils, Low Phosphorous engine oils, Anticorrosion coatings, antifouling paints.