An Improved Nanotribological System for Hard Disk Drives

A new family of aliphatic polyester lubricants has been developed for use in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) specifically for hard disk drives that operate at high spindle speeds (>15000rpm). Our program was initiated to address current problems with spin-off of the perfluoroether (PFPE) lubricants. The new polyester lubricant appears to alleviate spin-off problems and at the same time improves the chemical and thermal stability. This new system provides a low cost alternative to PFPE along with improved adhesion to the substrates. In addition, it displays a much lower viscosity which may be of importance to stiction related problems. The synthetic route is readily scalable in case additional interest emerges in other areas including small motors.