Mussel-inspired robust boundary lubricants for future electrified transport: Self-assembly of novel catechol-containing polymers in oil

We propose a SANS study to examine the self-assembly behaviour of novel catechol-containing polymer additives in oil. Our ultimate aim is to use these molecules for the construction of a robust boundary layer for future industrial lubricants that can strongly attach to a range of organic and inorganic surfaces and withstand the harsh shear conditions. The novel feature of the bespoke polymers synthesized by Infineum is inspired by mussel foot proteins which make use of the bidentate chelation ability of a catechol-containing group (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine; L-DOPA). As a first step, four novel catechol-containing polymers will be investigated to understand their self-assembly behaviour in oil, exploring the effect of temperature as well as the effect of concentration, polymer architecture, and catechol content.