Tribological Characteristics of Newly Synthesized Multi-Functional PFPE Lubricants

We have successfully synthesized a multi-functional PFPE lubricant in which extra polar groups exist in the middle of molecule. This was achieved by combining several PFPE molecules that contain hydroxyl end groups. The multifunctional molecule was fractionated using supercritical fluid of carbon dioxide then identified using NMR methods, which showed that average three to five hydroxyl groups are contained in one molecule depending on each fraction. This paper presents lubricant spreading properties and first monolayer thickness determined by means of half-dip coat method. It was found that resulting first monolayer thickness shows does not increase significantly; rather it was almost the same as that of the parent molecule.