tribochemischen

Tribochemistry is the branch of chemistry and tribology that studies chemical reactions triggered by mechanical energy input during contact between surfaces. It encompasses reactions initiated by friction, impact, rubbing, or abrasion, often at high local temperatures and pressures at asperities. The term includes mechanochemistry, where mechanical force drives bond formation and cleavage without external heating.

In tribochemical processes, energy is transferred to chemical bonds at interfaces, leading to bond breakage, radical formation, and new compounds at the contact zone. Reactions can occur in the solid state, on surfaces, or within lubricants and lubricating oil additives, producing tribofilms that alter friction and wear properties. Environmental factors such as humidity, oxide layers, temperature, and sliding speed influence pathways and kinetics.

Studying tribochemistry employs surface analysis techniques like X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman, infrared spectroscopy, and in-situ tribometry to monitor films and reaction products during operation. Kinetic models describe formation and growth of protective films, and the effect of additives like anti-wear and friction modifiers.

Applications include improving lubrication, reducing wear, and designing materials with tailored tribological performance. Tribochemical reactions explain why certain additives form protective films under friction and how materials degrade. The field intersects chemistry, materials science, and mechanical engineering and continues to contribute to sustainable engineering by enabling longer-lasting lubricants and components. In German-language sources, tribochemical processes are often referred to as tribochemischen Reaktionen.