As part of the Optimol Tribodays 2025 on September 22–23, the Triboneer Award once again took center stage. The award offers PhD candidates and students a unique opportunity to present their research projects in the field of friction and wear to a professional audience, receive valuable feedback, and connect with experts from both academia and industry.
This year’s contributions were diverse, innovative, and forward-looking. From sustainable lubrication concepts to novel applications in robotics – the range of topics was truly impressive.
The winner of the Triboneer Award 2025 is Kevin Holderied from Aalen University. With his presentation “Effects of oxidation of biodegradable PAO for E-gearboxes on coefficient of friction”, he convinced both the jury and the audience. Congratulations!
The winner’s prize package included:
- One week at the Technikum – including travel and hotel for the research team (SRV/ETS).
- OCA Analysis Desktop License – a one-year license for five users, granting access to cutting-edge analysis software.
The Participants and Their Presentations
Mr. Borja Armendariz-Molinero – Tekniker, Spain (online)
Mr. Johannes Walz – DLR, Germany (in person)
“High-temperature fretting wear behaviour of cobalt alloys”
Ms. Rahaf Aljaradat – Leibniz University Hannover (IMKT), Germany (in person)
“Development of Nano-Enhanced Bio-Based Coolants for Sustainable Machining”
Mr. Belal Nassef – Leibniz University Hannover (IMKT), Germany (in person)
“Eco-Friendly Grease: Oleogelator-Based Formulation with Carbonaceous Waste Nano-Additive”
Mr. Jiacheng Chu & Mr. Shiyao Liu – Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences, Germany (online)
“SRV-Tests with µ-patterned Fingertips for Robot Grippers”
Mr. Kevin Holderied – Aalen University, Germany (in person)
“Effects of oxidation of biodegradable PAO for E-gearboxes on coefficient of friction”
The Triboneer Award 2025 once again demonstrated the diversity and relevance of current tribology research. The projects showcased promising approaches for the future of mobility, sustainability, and industrial applications.
A heartfelt thank you to all participants – your dedication and innovative ideas are what make the Tribodays so special. We are already looking forward to the Triboneer Award 2026!
