New start-up launches innovative lubricant for bicycle chains on the market

11 February 2025

Photo: lu:bici

Wax keeps the chain clean and, unlike oil, does not trap dirt.

Nano researcher Artur Feld has developed an innovative wax-based lubricant that improves performance in cycling and has a more sustainable effect. The scientist is being supported by the Department of Chemistry with an EXIST start-up grant for his NanoLube project.

Dr. Artur Feld is a specialist in the field of nanoparticles. He worked for many years as a post-doctoral researcher in the group of former CUI spokesperson Prof. Horst Weller, investigating the formation and growth mechanisms of nanocrystals and the structure of novel nanocomposite materials.

In his spare time, Artur Feld is a passionate road cyclist and as such relies on a well-lubricated bike chain. Because wax keeps the chain clean and, unlike oil, does not trap dirt, wax is becoming an increasingly popular lubricant in cycling.  "By using a good chain wax, the chain and drivetrain will last up to three times longer, and at the same time, the athlete's performance will increase, because by minimizing friction, more power will be transferred to the road instead of getting stuck in the drivetrain," says the cyclist. Before waxing, however, the chain has to be cleaned with various solvents in a laborious process that is harmful to health and the environment in order to completely remove the oil. "This is uncomfortable and harmful for the individual, but also for the environment. In Europe alone, an estimated 11 million liters of solvents are used every year to degrease bicycle chains," says Feld. This kept the chemist going, and he developed the first one-step solution for transferring oil to wax.

Feld was looking for support for a start-up and found an ideal co-founder in Britta Kloust. Kloust has business expertise, an excellent network and experience in international trade. With the support of the University of Hamburg Transfer Agency's start-up consultancy, the team was able to secure an EXIST start-up grant.

The EXIST start-up grant is a funding program of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection (BMWK) and is co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF), which is part of the European Structural and Investment Funds. The start-up grant includes funds for living expenses, €30,000 in material resources and additional funds for coaching.

Artur Feld is also a guest scientist in the working group of Prof. Nadja-Carola Bigall, Horst Weller's successor at the Institute, and conducted research in the Cluster of Excellence “CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter”. “With its modern laboratories, the Institute of Physical Chemistry offers ideal start-up and working conditions,” says Feld. “A big thank you also goes to Nadja-Carola Bigall and Tobias Beck for their support.”

The innovative wax product will be available from spring.