Mechanochemistry uses mechanical forces to drive chemical reactions. Using in-situ scanning probe and optical techniques, we develop a mechanistic understanding of how local stress states influence reactivity at sliding contacts. We apply these insights to design stimuli-responsive materials; for example, materials that counteract friction and wear by forming lubricious, protective tribofilms through mechanochemical reactions. 

Researcher: Bunty Tomar

Collaborator: Prof. Ritesh Sachan (OSU), Prof. Babak Anasori (Purdue University)

Atomic force microscope as a stress-controlled nanoreactor to study mechanochemistry at sliding contacts

We study how nanoparticle sinter under concentrated stresses at sliding interfaces in a process known as tribosintering. In our recent Nano Letters publication, we showed that combining contact stresses with electric fields enables refractory nanocomposite films to sinter at remarkably low temperatures (around 100 °C) within minutes. Ongoing projects are probing tribosintering of 2D materials.

Researchers: Bunty Tomar, Foyez Ahmad, Zidan Mohiuddin

Cross-section micrographs showing a WC-Co film sintered on a steel substrate via electric field-assisted tribosintering (Nano Letters 2025)

We study the fundamental mechanisms of friction, wear, and lubrication under electric fields. This knowledge guides the development of advanced materials and lubricants for electric vehicles, electric aircraft, and power generation systems. In our recent Langmuir publication, we showed that electric currents accelerate the mechanochemical reactions of ionic liquids at sliding interfaces, generating protective tribofilms. Ongoing projects are examining nanolubrication mechanisms under electric fields.

Researcher: Foyez Ahmad

Collaborators: Dr. Jun Qu (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), Prof. Kaan Kalkan (OSU), Prof. Dave McIlroy (OSU), Dr. Huimin Luo (Oak Ridge National Laboratory)

In-situ optical interferometry to probe lubrication mechanisms at sliding interfaces

The cold spray process exploits impact bonding and high strain rate plastic deformation to 3D print metals, starting with tiny microparticles as building blocks. Our group is investigating strategies to control bonding and microstructure formation during cold spray additive manufacturing.

Researcher: Chandler Saxon, Elijah Harrell