Molecular Optical Probes of Tribological Chemistry Under High Pressure,Temperature and Shear

摘要

Fundamental molecular, mechanical, and rheological variables driving tribo-chemical processes have been investigated using laser spectroscopic and theoretical modeling studies. These include the use of molecular-optical techniques to probe fluids under high pressure, temperature and shear conditions typical of those encountered in elastohydrodynamic (EHD) lubrication of bearings. In particular, Raman scattering has been used to perform simultaneous in situ measurements of fluid film thickness, temperature, viscosity, and pressure in a model bearing contact. In addition, in order to develop improved models for tribo-chemical phenomena, theoretical (computer simulation and analytical statistical mechanics) and experimental (Raman, fluorescence and picosecond pump-probe) studies have been used to quantitate the effects of high pressure and temperature on molecular rotation, vibration, solvation, isomerization and dissociation.