Investigation of the Structural Evolution of Small Molecule-Doped Ethomeen 18/12 Self Assembled Structures

The precise mechanism by which organic friction modifiers adsorb to a metal surface and reduce friction and wear remains unclear. Conflicting results exist between the currently accepted theory for lubrication and molecular dynamics simulations. In order to utilise these compounds optimally, this mechanism must be precisely understood, informing the next generation of friction modifiers that drastically improve the lifetimes of engines and significantly reduce fuel emissions. This work will exploit the use of SANS and deuteration to understand and characterise the self-assembly and structural evolution of Ethomeen 18/12 with phenol, propionic acid, and salicylic acid-doping.