Measurement of adsorption energy between a solid adsorbent and a liquid adsorbate using differential scanning calorimetry

We report on a novel method involving the use of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in evaluation of adsorption energy between a liquid adsorbate and a solid adsorbent. The proof of concept is demonstrated by measuring the exothermic heat release due to the adsorption of automotive transmission fluid (ATF), the adsorbate, to a paper-based friction material used in automotive torque converters, the adsorbent. The novelty of the measurement technique involves initial freezing of the liquid adsorbate so that the initiation of the adsorption process can be identified. Our experimental results and theoretical calculations reveal that the adsorption energy of the friction paper and the summation of adsorption energies of each friction paper ingredient are in good agreement.