Meet Nye - Dr. Jennifer Frias
Dr. Jennifer Frias joined Nye’s Research and Development team in early 2019 as a Research Scientist. Prior to Nye, Jennifer worked as a Research Chemist in the Polymer Additives division at a prominent chemical company, where she was involved in the formulation and development of UV stabilized solutions for polymers used in various market segments. At Nye, Jennifer is part of a team of researchers that is focused on novel rheological test methods used in the development of the next generation motion control lubricants. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics from Simmons University and a PhD in Polymer Science from the University of Connecticut.
What are the most important properties to consider when selecting an automotive motion control grease?
Nye has focused on developing two rheological custom test methods to help in selecting a motion control grease for automotive interiors. One looks at the grease's viscosity ratio (viscous consistency) over a wide temperature range, typically over -40 to 120 °C, and the other measures the recovery of the grease's structure after repeated use. Depending on the specific application, an automotive interior motion control grease must also reduce noise and vibration as well as provide protection against friction and wear.
How will Nye’s new custom test methods expand our knowledge of motion control grease and its damping properties?
Nye’s new custom rheological test methods have allowed us to simulate the grease’s behavior in automotive interior applications and compare the performance of new technology against Nye’s existing greases. For example, in a hand-operated component, such as a sun visor or volume dial, the user wants the same quality feel regardless of temperature inside the vehicle. Nye has designed a customizable rheological test that can measure the shear response of the grease at different strains to simulate a customer’s specific application.
How has Nye used these new test methods to develop new motion control lubricants?
Nye has recently used these novel rheological test methods to develop a synthetic hydrocarbon-based automotive interior lubricant, NyoGel® 975F. This new technology approaches the temperature performance of silicone-based lubricants. In addition, NyoGel® 975F outperforms the structure recovery of silicone-based lubricants. Observing how a grease recovers over time is essential to a customer’s design so that each actuation feels the same. Minimal oil separation and reduction in wear come as added benefits for this next generation motion control lubricant.
What is your favorite part about working at Nye?
My favorite part about working at Nye is the people. We have an amazing team at Nye and you really feel part of the Nye/Fuchs family. The future is exciting with our team, world-class testing capabilities in combination with resources available now through Fuchs, creating endless possibilities in the development of next generation products.
