The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) released its 2026 Report on Emerging Issues and Trends in Tribology and Lubrication Engineering, highlighting four key factors that it believes will change lubricant development and application across multiple industries.
The widespread adoption of electric vehicles, government pressure to reduce emissions across all transport modes and end users’ performance demands have presented major challenges in the past decade. The report is a forward-looking assessment of technological and market shifts influencing formulators, OEMs and end users, such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, thermal management and decarbonization.
The report was written by Neil Canter, STLE’s technical advisor and head of consulting firm Chemical Solutions, in collaboration with STLE’s board and technical committees, drawing on input from more than 10 industry specialists. According to Canter, these trends are expected to drive innovation while helping lubricant users improve efficiency and reduce emissions and operating costs.
“AI is the single most significant trend that is and will impact the tribology and lubrication field. Proper use of this technology may lead to the development of a wide range of benefits including newer alloys that may be more effective in specific applications,” Canter told Lube Report.
Artificial intelligence is emerging as a transformative tool in tribology research. The report points to the growing adoption of “Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable” data practices to connect experimental results with machine learning models, alongside high-throughput technologies such as robotic tribometers capable of running hundreds of tests per day. Advances in materials discovery are also accelerating, with nanoparticle libraries enabling rapid screening of millions of formulations.
Canter said AI could lead to better additives tailored for specific applications, lubricants designed for targeted use cases, improved techniques for monitoring lubricant systems and troubleshooting problems, and enhanced communication of R&D findings to benefit those engaged in tribology research.
Decarbonization remains a central theme, with interest rising in renewable base stocks and alternative formulations. The report examines the use of glycerol-based lubricants in forestry, agriculture and hydropower applications, as well as strategies to extend oil life through additive replenishment. It also notes emerging formulation challenges associated with hydrogen- and ammonia-fueled systems.
“Decarbonization represents the greatest threat to the established lubricant order because if implemented, it will lead to a dramatic changeover to offerings that are derived from renewable sources and also that are more water-based,” Canter said. One example highlighted in the STLE report is the use of glycerol-based lubricants specifically in environmentally sensitive applications.
Thermal management is identified as a critical growth area, particularly as electrification and digital infrastructure expand. In manufacturing, the report introduces the concept of an “Industry 4.0 flywheel,” where AI-driven systems enable continuous optimization rather than reactive troubleshooting.