Lubrication by a new principle: The use of non-wetting liquids

Current concepts regarding lubrication are briefly reviewed and a new lubrication principle based on the use of non-wetting liquids is presented. Experimental tests are described, and the results show the validity of the principle. Technological difficulties which need to be overcome for industrial designs are outlined. This new principle is also considered to be part of the processes involved in animal or human joint lubrication.