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China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics ›› 2026, Vol. 56 ›› Issue (8): 984-990.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2097-2806.2026.08.002

• Invited paper • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research progress of surfactant-based lubricant additives

Ting Li,Wenjing Hu,Jiusheng Li*()   

  1. Laboratory for Advanced Lubricating Materials, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
  • Received:2026-07-27 Revised:2026-08-09 Online:2026-08-22 Published:2026-09-02
  • Contact: *E-mail: lijs@sari.ac.cn. E-mail:lijs@sari.ac.cn

Abstract:

Lubricant additives are core functional agents for ensuring reliable machinery operation and energy efficiency. Their molecular structure design and synergism in formulations can directly dictate the tribological performance, energy effectiveness, and service durability of high-end equipment. In this review, the action mechanisms and functional positioning of surfactants in lubrication systems were systematically elucidated. The classification characteristics and application performances of detergents-dispersants, emulsifiers, extreme-pressure anti-wear additives, antioxidant and anti-corrosion agents, and auxiliary functional additives were reviewed. Those cutting-edge technological innovations were summarized, including nano-modified materials, functionalized ionic liquids, biodegradable systems, and green synthesis processes. In light of the development trends in new energy vehicles, high-end intelligent equipment, and green chemistry, in this review, the novel performance demands and the technical breakthrough paths for lubricant additives were clarified. The literature research indicated that the integrated application of functional molecular design, synergistic multi-component compounding, and green material technologies could effectively break through the performance bottlenecks and environmental limitations of traditional lubricant additives.

Key words: lubrication, friction, surfactant, green chemistry

CLC Number: 

  • TQ423