Ecotribology: Environmentally acceptable tribological practices

Savings of resources of energy on one side, and reducing the impact on the environment on the other, are the most important aspects of ecotribology. In the course of relevant practices savings of basic resources and materials, optimum design, optimum operation, reduced energy consumption and the protection of the environment have to be covered. Under the last mentioned aspect, the reduction of the environmental damages by lubricants will be discussed more in detail. Using environmentally acceptable lubricants is the key factor for this aspect. Definitions, terms used, laws and regulations, health and water hazards, biodegradability and environmental labelling will be explained. In the so-called ECO-Balance-Sheet-Tree all aspects mentioned above are summarised.