Projects

A Framework to Develop Novel Biobased E-Fluids Supporting Next Generation EV Technology (Funding agency: Office of Vice President of Research, Iowa State University)

One of the growing concerns regarding mineral oil-based lubricants is their detrimental effects on the environment. Commercial lubricants used in the automotive sector are still primarily based on petroleum-based lubricants. ‘Bio-based’ lubricants, or ‘bio-lubricants,’ are derived from bio-based raw materials such as animal fat, vegetable oil, or other environmentally friendly hydrocarbons. A significant amount of research has been conducted to understand the potential of these bio-lubricants and their use in traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles; however, electric vehicles (EVs), powered by batteries, fuel cells, or fuel cell hybrid systems, have gained significant attention over the past few years as a sustainable approach to transportation since their use can as-sist in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the adverse effects of ICE vehicles. Our proposed research will explore the compatibility of biobased lubricants and future electric vehicles. The process will start with novel chemical modification of biobased oil as base stock, followed by additization using indigenously developed carbon nano-onion (CNO) as antiwear additives. Finally, the formulated lubricants will be tested using controlled contact conditions to evaluate their performance against conventional lubricants.