This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II project proposes to develop a polymeric lubricant that is environmentally friendly for cold forging of metals, by using proprietary emulsion polymerication technology to synthesize polymers containing both polar functional groups that adhere to the metal surface, and hydrophobic groups to provide lubricity, and by replacing zinc phosphate typically used as a corrosion inhibitor, with a more benign material.
This technology could lead to new lubricants for metal forging processes that are more environmentally benign, thereby reducing a potential health and environmental threat, and enhancing the competitive manufacturing position of the US.