High resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy was used to measure the vibrational frequencies of in situ deposited films of Fomblin Y on polycrystalline molybdenum. Molecular Fomblin Y vibrations are identified as follows : 35 meV (chain wag); 68 meV, delta(CF3); 88 meV, delta(OCO); 125 meV, nu(CF3-C-CF2); 157 meV, nu(s)(CF3); and 314 meV, 2 nu(s)(CF3). The thermal decomposition and electron stimulated decomposition of Fomblin Y on polycrystalline molybdenum have also been investigated. In both cases initial fragmentation of the lubricant molecule proceeds with the disappearance of the vibrational modes at 32 and 88 meV. The decomposition pathways then proceed differently for the respective degradation processes. Thin films of fluorinated lubricants have also been imaged with photoelectron emission microscopy on a rotating cylindrical polycrystalline molybdenum sample. In situ stylus contact is imaged in situ and in real-time. Areas of lubrication are clearly resolved in the image, as are wear tracks formed by contact with the lubricated and clean areas of the surface.