The next generation of hard disk drives will require lubricant coatings that can hold up to faster speeds and denser data. Perfluoropolyethers (PFPEs), the current industry standard, are running up against the polymer’s limits in protecting hard drives against daily wear and tear.

So University of Illinois Ph.D. candidate Wei Xiao developed an entirely new lubricant called SHP — sterically hindered polyester, based on inexpensive and abundant polyester.