In a finding that signals potential challenges for electric vehicles, a team of researchers from academia and industry observed that electrical charge applied to the interface of metal surfaces can significantly increase the rate of wear when they slide against each other.

In another twist of the Isla Refinery saga, Curacao government officials confirmed the preferred bidder seeking to operate the facility provided several forged documents from its financial partners but absolved it of any responsibility and said it will continue negotiations.

The January issue explores trends in base stocks and finished lubricants. Discover how two new lubricant manufacturing processes can decrease energy usage as well as what the future may hold for bright stock demand. Plus, find out what NLGI and ELGI’s grease working groups have been up to recently and how their work may affect the industry. Also in this issue: Is the Future Bright for Bright Stock? Group I capacity has been dwindling for years and is expected to continue on a downhill slide. I...

TCL Specialties LLC, a subsidiary of India’s Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd., will break ground this month on two manufacturing facilities in West Virginia’s Marshall County, including a maleic anhydride plant, Gov. Jim Justice announced Jan. 11. Maleic anhydride is used in making lubricant additives, such as corrosion inhibitors and detergents, along with plastics, polyesters and other materials.