Temperature dependence of molybdenum dialkyl dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) tribofilms via time-resolved Raman spectroscopy.

Molybdenum dialkyl dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) is a friction reducing additive commonly used in lubricants. MoDTC works by forming a low-friction molybdenum disulphide (MoS) film (tribofilm) on rubbed surfaces. MoDTC-induced MoS tribofilms have been studied extensively ex-situ; however, there is no consensus on the chemical mechanism of its formation process.

Mechanochemistry of Zinc Dialkyldithiophosphate on Steel Surfaces under Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Conditions.

Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) is added to engine lubricants to reduce wear and ensure reliable operation. ZDDP reacts under rubbing conditions to form protective zinc/iron phosphate tribofilms on steel surfaces. Recently, it has been demonstrated that this process can be promoted by applied stresses in lubricated contacts, as well as temperature, and is thus mechanochemical in origin.