tribology

Nature Communications, Published online: 21 June 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-74450-w The work builds a sliding triboelectric generator using structural superlubricity between graphite and silicon oxide. Atomic-scale contact yields near-zero friction, suppresses air breakdown, eliminates wear, and delivers stable, enhanced charge output over long cycling.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientist Tomas Grejtak has received STLE's Early Career Award, honoring high-impact research in tribology (friction, wear, and lubrication), and will be recognized at the society's May 18-21 annual meeting in New Orleans. His work focuses on wear, friction, deformation and contact mechanics in materials used in nuclear, biomass and automotive systems.

The tribological performance of sliding surfaces in water can be improved by using lubricating solutions containing additives such as water-soluble sodium carboxylates, which reduce friction and prevent corrosion. These additives adsorb onto metal surfaces to exert their functions; however, the structural characteristics at the metal-solution interface and their influence on tribological properti…