Application of principles of equilibrium thermodynamics in chemmotology and tribonics (a discussion)

This article represents an attempt to arrive at a scientific basis, mainly in application to internal combustion engines, for an overall objective relationship that will determine unambiguously the tendency of these processes to go forward in an energetically favorable direction. It examines certain phenomena on the friction surface and in the lubricating oil. It points out that a knowledge of the objective relationship of the trend toward minimization of entropy production of an abstract system consisting of a frictional assembly and the surrounding enables a correct solution of the problem of establishing a rational service life for lubricants in vehicles and machinery. It concludes that by means of the mathematical apparatus in the current stage of development of nonequilibrium thermodynamics, the entropy production can be determined numerically.