Importance of anionic reactive intermediates for lubricant component reactions with friction surfaces

Abstract

AbstractTo understand the chemical behaviour of lubricant components during boundary lubrication, a general concept of negative ionradical reactive intermediates formation for these components has been proposed. The concept is based upon the ionisation mechanism of these compounds caused by the action of electrons of law energy (1–4 eV). Electrons of such energy (exoelectrons) are spontaneously emitted from most fresh surfaces formed during friction. The principal thesis of the model is that lubricant components form anions which are then chemisorbed on the positively charged areas of rubbing surfaces.The formation of negative ions and their decomposition process are simulated by electron attachment mass spectrography. This type of mass spectrography uses electrons of an energy range similar to those of exoelectrons. The proposed model encompasses the following major stages: (a) low‐energy electron emission process and creation of positively charged spots, (b) action of emitted electrons with lubricant components (anion and radical formation), (c) reactions of anions with metal surfaces forming a film protecting the surface from wear, (d) cracking of chemical bonds producing other radicals. The model explains many lubrication phenomena of hydrocarbons, oxygen‐containing compounds, and many types of chemicals used as antiwear and extreme‐pressure additives.