TribologyTalks
TribologyTalks is your gateway to understanding the intriguing world of tribology. Our podcast demystifies the fundamentals and explores advanced topics in friction, wear, and lubrication, while spotlighting the latest research and industry trends. Join us for insightful conversations with esteemed guests who bring diverse perspectives and expertise in various areas of tribological research and fields.
All Episodes
Talking Tribology with Joe and Jie Part 2
In Part 2 of our conversation with Joseph Shore and Jie Zhang from the Imperial College Tribology Group, we move from research backgrounds into the challenge of designing meaningful tribology tests. Joined by PCS Instruments’ Ben Wainwright, Joe and Jie discuss what makes a good test, how fundamental contacts can help us understand real applications and why modelling, assumptions and experimental data all need to work together. The episode also looks ahead to future tribology challenges, from EV drivetrains and high-speed testing to hydrogen, ammonia, robotics and more sustainable lubrication.-1.jpeg)
Talking Tribology with Joe and Jie
In this episode of Tribology Talks, PCS Instruments Ben is joined by Joeseph Shore and Jie Zhang from the Imperial College Tribology Group for the first part of their conversation. They begin by sharing how they first became interested in tribology, from early curiosity about mechanical engineering to research projects at Imperial College London. The discussion then moves into their current work, including EV drivetrain efficiency, high-speed bearing reliability, lubricant behaviour in inert gas environments, and the role of hydrogen and ammonia in future transport systems. Together, they explore the challenge of connecting benchtop testing with real-world applications, and why understanding the wider operating environment is so important in modern tribology.
Christopher Clayson: From Esters to Electrification
In Part 2 of Tribology Talks, PCS Instruments host Dr Kieran Nar continues the conversation with Christopher Clayson from Cargill, exploring how esters, electrification and sustainability are shaping the next generation of lubricant development. The episode looks at why esters are attracting growing interest across EV fluids, industrial oils and marine applications, from low traction and thermal stability to biodegradability, carbon footprint reduction and improved efficiency. Kieran and Christopher also discuss the pace of change across the industry, the importance of updated test methods for electrified systems, and the role of collaboration, digitalisation and interdisciplinary thinking in developing advanced lubricants for the future.
Christopher Clayson: How Do You End Up in Tribology?
Join us for our first podcast of 2026. In this episode, Kieran Nar sits down with Christopher Clayson, Application Scientist at Cargill, to talk through how a background in natural sciences turned into a career in tribology. From early placements to working in R&D, Chris shares how his role has developed and what it’s really like operating at the intersection of chemistry, physics and engineering. The conversation also touches on how the lubricants industry is shifting, from traditional engine oils to the demands of electric vehicles, and why collaboration across the field is becoming more important than ever. A candid look at how careers take shape, and how the industry is evolving alongside them.