Congratulations to Dr Ben Fry, one of our dedicated Chemists, who has been awarded the European Lubricating Grease Institute’s (ELGI) 2025 Best Paper Award. This achievement recognises his ground-breaking work on the SiToLub project, and his paper titled “Simulation Tools for the Design of Safe and Sustainable Lubricants.”
A pioneering approach to lubricant development
Dr Fry’s paper highlights the potential of simulation tools to transform the development of next-generation lubricants. The SiToLub project, in which RS Clare is a key partner, addresses critical challenges in the lubricant industry, including stringent regulatory requirements and the drive towards sustainability.
The tools being developed as part of the project will enable users to adhere to the EU’s Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework. By predicting the safety, performance, and sustainability of lubricant additives before laboratory testing, these tools streamline development processes.
An AI model further enhances this process, offering innovative solutions by proposing alternative chemistries that are safer and more environmentally friendly. This approach not only accelerates the formulation of new lubricants but also ensures they meet the evolving Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) regulations.
High praise from ELGI
ELGI praised Dr Fry’s outstanding contribution with the following statement on LinkedIn:
“Ben’s presentation stood out for its:
✅ Strong technical content
✅ High-quality delivery
✅ Originality and innovation in the field of tribology
His work highlights how simulation tools can accelerate the development of safe, sustainable lubricants—an essential step toward a low-carbon future. 🌱🛢️
👏 On behalf of the ELGI Awards Committee and Board, congratulations to Ben Fry on this well-deserved recognition!”
In recognition of his achievements, Dr Fry has also been included in ELGI’s prestigious Hall of Fame on their website.
Reflections on Copenhagen and industry collaboration
Dr Fry presented his award-winning work at the ELGI 35th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Copenhagen. Reflecting on the event, he remarked:
“It was a pleasure to participate in the ELGI 35th AGM in Copenhagen, presenting the SiToLub project. It was fascinating to hear about the other work going on within the grease community and to network and meet other professionals in the industry. It was great to participate in the working groups, seeing how different companies are working together to gain a greater understanding of the different issues the grease industry is currently facing and how test methods and techniques are being updated to keep up with these changes. It was also interesting to be involved in the sustainability technical consortium, seeing how the work being carried out aligns with the values of RS Clare and the goals of the SiToLub project.
I look forward to attending future ELGI AGMs to continue our involvement in the wider industry and present the results of the SiToLub project.”
Anticipation for further insights
Dr Fry’s full paper will be published in the forthcoming edition of the ELGI Eurogrease magazine. This in-depth article will provide additional insights into the SiToLub project and its contributions to advancing lubricant development.
For details on other publications featuring RS Clare and our experts, please visit our Press Coverage page.
