Real-Time Monitoring of Antioxidant Degradation in Lubricants

This project aims to improve how we monitor the condition of lubricating oils used in engines, turbines, and other critical industrial systems. These oils rely on antioxidants to prevent chemical breakdown. When the antioxidants degrade, it can cause equipment damage, costly downtime, and environmental harm.
To address this challenge, researchers at Carleton University, in collaboration with international academic partners, including V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, are developing a next-generation optical sensor. This device uses Raman spectroscopy, enhanced by nanomaterials, to detect early molecular changes in oil that are invisible to conventional methods.
The innovation will support Canadian industries, such as energy, aerospace, and defense, by improving maintenance strategies, reducing waste, and enhancing system reliability. At the same time, the project fosters global research collaboration by bringing students from Ukraine and potentially other European countries to Canada, promoting shared expertise in clean technology, sensing, and advanced materials.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ronald Miller

Student:

Partner:

National University of Kharkiv

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Quantum Science; Oil and Gas; Nanotechnology

University:

Carleton University

Program: