Tribochemical Characterization of Used Oil as a Digital Fingerprint of Alternative Internal Combustion Engines for Identifying Failure Modes in the National Automotive Fleet through Advanced Physicochemical Analysis and Specialized Laboratory Tools

This project addresses the technical gap in internal combustion engine maintenance in Ecuador, where traditional mileage-based preventive practices prevail. Given the lack of objective diagnostics, it proposes a tribochemical characterization of used oil using ASTM standards (FTIR, viscosity, TAN, TBN, Karl Fischer) to identify mechanical failure modes. The applied and experimental research will collect 300 real samples to create a structured database, enabling the future implementation of artificial intelligence models and predictive maintenance. The study aims to resolve the dependency on lubricant suppliers for diagnostics, establishing the university as an impartial technical actor. Expected results include standard operating procedures (SOPs), a functional diagnostic platform, and the strengthening of academic competencies aligned with ABET accreditation. Furthermore, the project positively impacts the operational efficiency of local fleets, reducing costs from premature failures and optimizing resource usage. The initiative aligns with the SDGs for quality education, industry and innovation, and responsible production, consolidating a tribology laboratory as a national benchmark for technology transfer and the training of highly skilled automotive engineers.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To tribochemically characterize used oil in internal combustion engines to identify mechanical failure modes and develop predictive diagnostic tools. The project aims to professionalize automotive maintenance through standardized physical-chemical analysis and technology transfer.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Energy efficiency and environmental pollution