Water-induced Structural Changes of Glycerol Mono Oleate at the Iron Oxide/Dodecane Interface

Engine oils lubricate moving components in engines, improving vehicle lifetimes and reducing emissions by minimising friction. Organic Friction Modifiers (OFMs) are friction-reducing engine oil additives that operate by adsorbing at metal surfaces. However, the precise mechanism by which OFMs reduce friction has yet to be clearly defined. To understand how these additives function, a novel tribometer rig has been developed which enables neutron reflectivity experiments to be carried out at elevated temperatures and pressures, whilst the surface is sheared. In this experiment we will detail the structural changes to the interfacial GMO layer as a function of GMO concentration, shear rate, and water content.