Shepherd Lubricant Study to be Published in Tribology Transactions Journal

A Shepherd Chemical study on the behavior and fate of bismuth and sulfur compounds in lubricant systems is scheduled for publication in Tribology Transactions Journal.  Tribology Transactions features scientific and technical papers in the field of tribology.  Since its inception in 1957, the quarterly journal has published more than 2,000 papers of relevance to a wide variety of industries. Transactions is read and referenced by nearly 1,000 leaders in the field of tribology research in countries around the world.

The study examined and elucidated the formation of Bismuth Sulfide as the active species in extreme pressure lubricants.  Dr. Nate Eckert, lead investigator, noted "we are pleased that this work which spanned a 12 month time period will add to the scientific literature regarding this lubrication mechanism.  Bismuth has been known in the past as an environmentally friendly EP additive, this work furthers the industry's understanding so that more formulators can take advantage of its outstanding properties."  Dr. Robert Hart and Mr. Ali Kerr were co-authors on the paper which is to be published in the January 2010 issue of Tribology Transactions.

Shepherd Chemicals sells a complete line of Bismuth carboxylates which can be used as part of EP formulations along with various sulfur species.  The company has additional information on the tribological tests using these formulations on its website - www.shepchem.com.