ABSTRACT
Greases Greases are semi-solids consisting of a thickening agent and a fluid lubricant. Many fluids have been incorporated into greases and used in connectors for reducing contact wear and for controlling fretting corrosion. The thickeners include finely divided silica, soaps (sodium, lithium, barium and other fatty acid salts), clays, Teflon powder, and various gelling agents, usually at 5-10% concentration. Mixtures of fluids and microcrystalline petroleum or synthetic waxes have also had extensive use. Petrolatum is a mixture of microcrystalline wax and mineral oil. Other additives, such as antioxidants, may be incorporated in the grease. Greases that contain graphite, or metallic particles such as zinc or silver, are not used in electronic connectors.
