Development of new in situ observation system for dynamic study of lubricant molecules on metal friction surfaces by two-dimensional fast-imaging Fourier-transform infrared-attenuated total reflection spectrometer.

To observe the time-dependent two-dimensional (2D) images of spatial distribution of chemically/physically modified lubricant molecules on the metal surface during friction motion, a new in situ technique has been developed by combining the 2D fast-imaging Fourier-transform infrared-attenuated total reflection spectrometer with the temperature-controlled friction equipment containing lubricant agent. Using this new instrument, the time-dependent changes in lubricant molecules, for example, cis-trans isomerization, stress-induced molecular deformation, etc., can be detected successfully. The characteristic features of this instrument have been demonstrated in a detailed and concrete manner by demonstrating the experimental data measured for oleic acid and tricresyl phosphate.