The aim of our research is to better understand the operating physical and chemical processes which drive material behavior at sliding (i.e., tribological) interfaces. The overarching goal of this research is to transform reliability and efficiency of mechanical systems, as well as to enable new technologies through the development of advanced materials. Our research lies at the intersection of materials science, surface chemistry, classical mechanics, nanotechnology and precision engineering. To enable this work, we utilize experimental techniques both in-situ and ex-situ which probe length-scales ranging from 1 nm to 1 cm.

A key focus of this research is on bridging nano and macro length-scales through the design of novel measurement techniques, instruments and material systems.

Active research topics in the GU Tribology Research Laboratory include:

• Design and characterization of polymer nanocomposites for ultra-low wear in extreme environments

• Characterization of chemical and mechanochemical surface properties of tribological materials

• Nanoscale tribological, mechanical and chemical characterization of 2D materials using atomic force microscopy

• Design and fabrication of precision instruments for multi-scale experimental tribometry

• Novel lubricant additives and basestock: their stability, co-additive interactions and interactions with surfaces

November 2019

Our new Asylum Research MFP-3D is online! See the ‘Capabilities’ page for more information on AFM modes available on this system or contact us for more details.

August 2019
Dr. Khare and Drs. Cravens, Swanson and Watson have been awarded a $267,000 NSF-MRI grant to bring an atomic force microscope to Gonzaga! read more

November 2018
Nano Letters paper on Nanotribological Printing is featured on nanowerk.com! Click the image below to read the article!