In the ever-evolving landscape of tribology—the science of interacting surfaces in relative motion—the Greenwood-Tripp (GT) model has long been a cornerstone for understanding friction in mixed and boundary lubrication regimes. Now, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis led by Maja Ilić of AC2T research GmbH in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, has shed new light on the model’s enduring relevance and its pivotal role in the energy sector, particularly in internal combustion engines.
The GT model, first introduced in 1972, has been instrumental in calculating friction force in various lubrication scenarios. Ilić’s research, published in the journal ‘Tribology and Materials’ (translated as ‘Tribology and Materials’), compiles a database of all Scopus-indexed papers that have utilized the GT model up to 2025. By employing advanced bibliometric tools such as Bibliometrix, ScientoPy, pyBibX, and VOSviewer, Ilić and her team have identified key trends and applications of the GT model, demonstrating its universal applicability and ongoing significance.
“Our analysis reveals that the GT model’s formula for calculating friction force remains universally valid,” Ilić explains. “However, its primary application today is centered on internal combustion engines, specifically the ring-cylinder liner tribological system.” This finding underscores the model’s critical role in optimizing engine performance and efficiency, which has profound implications for the energy sector.
The bibliometric overview not only confirms the GT model’s enduring utility but also paves the way for more in-depth research. By understanding the trends and applications of the GT model, researchers can further exploit its potential to enhance lubrication strategies and reduce friction in various mechanical systems. This, in turn, can lead to significant energy savings and reduced wear and tear, ultimately benefiting industries reliant on mechanical efficiency.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gleaned from this bibliometric analysis could shape future developments in tribology. By leveraging the GT model’s proven efficacy, engineers and scientists can innovate more effective lubrication solutions, contributing to the overall advancement of mechanical technologies. Ilić’s research serves as a testament to the power of bibliometric analysis in uncovering valuable insights and driving progress in the field of tribology.
In a world where energy efficiency and sustainability are paramount, the GT model’s continued relevance is a beacon of hope. As Ilić’s work demonstrates, the model’s applications are far from exhausted, and its potential to drive innovation in the energy sector remains vast. By building on this foundation, researchers can continue to push the boundaries of tribology, ensuring that the science of friction remains at the forefront of technological advancement.