Direct synthesis of fluoropolymer particles in ionic liquids via the photopolymerization of solid lubricants

A method for synthesizing fluorine-based polymer particles as additive agents in ionic liquid (ILs)-based lubricants for vacuum is proposed. This method can directly generate fluoropolymer nanoparticles inside an IL, while protecting the IL from light damage during polymerization. In this study, photocurable materials that are expected to be used as solid lubricants were selected, and the synthesis method, details of the polymer particles, and their effect on lubrication performance are described. This method reduced the friction coefficient, and traces of the polymer were observed on the surface of the test piece. The outgassed product from the lubricant did not differ from that from the pure IL under high vacuum.