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Research

Within the Laboratory for Surface Technology and Tribology, research is grouped into three tracks:
  • Lubricated Systems and Tribology, headed by prof. dr. Dirk Jan Schipper
  • Special Materials and Coatings, headed by dr. Matthijn de Rooij
  • Bio-applications of Surface Technology and Tribology, headed by dr. Marc Masen

    Lubricated Systems and Tribology focuses on friction and wear in lubricated systems. Traditionally, subjects such as lubrication regimes and the resulting friction are investigated, often with links to applications such as bearings, engines and compressors. Nowadays, research focuses more on phenomena that occur on a micro- and a nano-scale. Some examples are the influence of surface microgeometry on the lubrication conditions in a contact, the occurrence of micro-EHL as well as lubrication in nano-machines.

    Special Materials and Coatings investigates phenomena related to materials, surface layers, microgeometry and textures. Examples are the contact and friction behaviour of elastomeric polymers and the surface quality of aluminium and magnesium extrusions and friction and wear at extremely low temperatures.

    Bio-applications involves subjects the tribology of the interaction between the human skin and products, dental wear and oral friction. This is a relatively new area of research that is developing rapidly, both nationally and internationally. Applications are ranging from medical and cosmetics to foods, consumer products and packaging.

    Research is mostly carried out by PhD students, Postdoctoral researchers and MSc students in cooperation with companies and research institutes, both within the Netherlands as well as abroad.