Impact of a model synovial fluid on supported lipid membranes

► Combined neutron reflectivity and infrared spectroscopy study on lipid membrane stacks at solid-liquid interface. ► Membrane stacks behave differently in hyaluronic acid, HA, in D2O as compared to behavior in pure D2O. ► HA in D2O: new stable state of lipid films at physiological temperature. ► D2O: lipid films detach from support at physiological temperature. ► Findings relevant to joint lubrication in mammals and protective wear functionality.