海角黑料

In a study published in the Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B, researchers from across the Faculties of Engineering and Science explore correlative analytical approaches for the characterisation of lubricating grease. 

This study explores how polyurea grease - the type used in electric vehicle motors - organises itself into distinct particle-like structures dispersed throughout the base oil. Using a combination of advanced chemical imaging methods (confocal Raman microscopy and cryogenic secondary ion mass spectrometry) alongside similar optical techniques, the authors have demonstrated that it is possible to study the grease in a near-native state without removing the oil, which would otherwise distort its structure. Importantly, the results confirm that polarised optcial microscopy - a fast and inexpensive method - reliably reveals the true thickener structure once validated by the more sophisticated analyses. This improved understanding will help guide the design of future high-performance lubricating greases.

The study was recently published in the Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B () as part of a special collection celebrating the career of Prof. Jiro Matsuo and his leadership in gas cluster ion beam technology and secondary ion mass spectrometry.