Modification of stability behavior of friction-stressed lubricating greases

The occurrence of instability is a prerequesite for a possible self-organized process. Self-organization as the formation of dissipative structure also appears to be posiible in a stressed lubricating greases film. Nomerous studies shown that dissipative structures alter the tribological behavior of a friction pair. This work presents the condition for a possible instanility during the friction process in a lubricating grease film. The continuous supply of mechanical energy results in an energy dissipation process (structural change) and entropy production. A disturbance in the steady state leads to a disturbance of energy dissipation (lubricating grease wear) and additional entropy production. The interaction of these two processes is axamined with regard to their influence on stability conditions.