Nuria Espallargas

Nuria Espallargas is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering and the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. She leads the Gemini Centre for Tribology since 2011 and directs research on surface chemistry, tribocorrosion, and environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs).

• MSc in Chemistry, University of Barcelona (Spain)
• PhD in Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, University of Barcelona (Spain)

Research Interests:

• Surface chemistry and engineering
• Tribology and tribochemical degradation
• Environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs) and water lubrication
• Nano-tribology and multi-degradation mechanisms
• Coatings and surface treatments for tribo-corrosive environments

Publication Trends: Her recent work focuses on ionic liquid additives for water-based lubricants, tribofilm chemistry, and SiC-based thermal spray coatings. Projects emphasize sustainable materials for maritime applications, tribocorrosion-fatigue synergy, and molecular-scale friction modifiers.

Awards:

• Finalist, EU Prize for Women Innovators (2019)
• Female Entrepreneur of the Year, Norway (2017)
• Young Innovator Award, Norway (2015)
• Nominated, Best Communicator NTNU (2015)

Editorial & Leadership: She serves as Associate Editor for Friction (Springer) and Journal of Tribology (ASME), chairs the Research Council of Norway's Enabling Technologies portfolio board, and contributes to international tribology committees (International Tribology Council, COST networks).