In-SituTribo: Enabling PFAS-Free Tribological Interfaces through In-Situ Raman Spectroscopy and Predictive Modelling

The Postdoctoral Fellowship offers the applicant the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at the University of Leeds, one of Europe’s leading centres for tribology and surface engineering. The fellowship will combine the applicant’s expertise in in-situ tribochemical analysis with the host’s strengths in predictive modelling to create an integrated framework for designing safer, high-performance sliding interfaces. Current reliance on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in tribological systems poses serious environmental and health concerns, yet effective PFAS-free alternatives remain limited. A key challenge lies in understanding and controlling tribochemical reactions at polymer/metal interfaces under realistic operating conditions. Without such knowledge, the replacement materials often underperform or fail prematurely. This project will address the challenge by integrating surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) with 3D optical profilometry to monitor, in real time, the formation and evolution of tribofilms during sliding. These experimental insights will be coupled with data-driven predictive models to link molecular-scale processes to macroscopic friction and wear behaviour. The research will proceed in three stages: (1) developing and validating SERS-active coatings for in-situ analysis; (2) elucidating competitive tribochemical mechanisms in PFAS-free lubricated and unlubricated systems; and (3) building predictive models to guide material selection and design. By the end of the fellowship, the project will deliver new mechanistic understanding of tribofilm evolution, a transferable methodology for in-situ tribochemical characterisation, and practical guidelines for replacing PFAS in industrial tribosystems. These outcomes will advance sustainable engineering solutions and reduce the environmental footprint of future technologies.