Mesogenic oil

So-called mesogenic lubricants undergo under certain conditions of pressure

and shear a fast and reversible transition from the low viscous isotropic to a highly viscous ordered liquid crystal phase. This is behind the concept of „intelligent lubricants“ by which as well a contact between the metal parts as well as inner friction caused by the low bulk viscosity is avoided.

Also the anisotropy of viscosity can be exploited in certain bearings leading to hitherto unreached low friction coefficients..

Available are smectogenic (S2, S8) of rod-like molecules and discogenic oils (D1, D2) of disc-like molecules.

Greases based on these oils can also be provided.

The principle has proved to be applicable in 

• textile industry (thread guides, spindle bearings)
• robots (linear bearings)
• telescopes (no slip stick in roller bearings)
• worm gear units (longer lifetime)
• automotive lubrication:
  • less friction losses in valve gears (racing engines),
  • low noise level in gears,
  • general improvement of mechanical efficiency.

 The synthesis of new oils with distinct „liquid crystal lift“ is in progress.

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