Superlubricity, the state of ultra-low friction between two sliding surfaces, has become an important future topic in tribology. The main goal of the research project is to investigate the lubrication mechanism of sustainable lubricants in the context of liquid superlubricity. A good understanding of the mechanisms is essential for optimizing the molecular structure of future lubricant molecules. In this project, your task is to experimentally investigate reference compounds under different tribological conditions to determine the conditions that lead to superlubricity. Your experiments also include detailed analyses of both the counter bodies and the lubricant in order to analyze degradation products and friction properties. The experiments investigate the formation of tribological layers over time, which is influenced by mechanical stress and temperature. The aim is to develop additives that can catalyze the formation of tribolayers in order to accelerate the process.

Finally, the project will investigate whether the addition of catalytically active metal salts can enable this behavior in different material pairings. As part of your collaboration at the institute, you will be offered the opportunity to pursue a doctorate.

You have:

• A very good completed scientific university education (Master) in the field of natural or engineering sciences (Materials science, Chemistry, Physics)
• Ideally, previous knowledge in the field of tribology or materials science
• Outstanding commitment, high level of initiative and creativity
• High team and communication skills as well as assertiveness
• Independent and structured way of working