This research will provide in situ imaging and spectroscopic examination of how lubricants organize during sliding in boundary layer films. Designed to respond to recommendations from a recent NSF-commissioned workshop, "Frontiers of Fundamental Tribological Research," it will develops new methods for the in-situ diagnosis of boundary lubrication, primarily using confocal Raman spectroscopy. The intellectual merit is twofold. First, this will develop new understanding of how molecules align and react chemically in boundary lubrication. Second, the methods developed may also find general application in other research groups. The broader impact concerns the integration between research and education. Spectroscopic and imaging techniques new to the field of tribology will be introduced, thereby accomplishing a significant intellectual transfer between disciplines. This laboratory has a good track record of involving women and minority undergraduate researchers. It also has a good track record of female coworkers later finding faculty positions.
