Nanoscale lubrication of ionic surfaces controlled via a strong electric field.

ABSTRACT: Frictional forces arise whenever objects around us are set in motion. Controlling them in a rational manner means gaining leverage over mechanical energy losses and wear. This paper presents a way of manipulating nanoscale friction by means of in situ lubrication and interfacial electrochemistry. Water lubricant is directionally condensed from the vapor phase at a moving metal-ionic crystal interface by a strong confined electric field, thereby allowing friction to be tuned up or down via an applied bias. The electric potential polarity and ionic solid solubility are shown to strongly influence friction between the atomic force microscope (AFM) tip and salt surface. An increase in friction is associated with the AFM tip digging into the surface, whereas reducing friction does not influence

SUBMITTER: Strelcov E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4306914 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature