Green and biomimetic tribology

Abstract

Green Tribology is a new area of tribology studying ecological approaches, methods, and applications in tribology. The major premise of green tribology is minimization of friction and wear, and reduction or elimination of lubrication. It includes eco-friendly materials and coating, green lubricants (biodegradable lubricants) and biomimetic surfaces used in tribological application. Using sustainable chemistry and engineering principles, biomimetic approaches and surface texturing are other concerns of green tribology. The area also takes degradation of surfaces, coatings, and components into consideration during design stages. The tribology of renewable sources of energy can also be considered as a relatively new challenge. We discuss areas and principles of green tribology and current developments in biomimetic materials and surfaces.