Role of fingerprint-inspired relief structures in elastomeric slabs for detecting frictional differences arising from surface monolayers.

ABSTRACT: The perception of fine texture of an object is influenced by its microscopic topography and surface chemistry-i.e., the topmost layer of atoms and molecules responsible for its surface energy, adhesion, and friction generated when probed by a fingertip. Recently, it has been shown that human subjects can discriminate high-energy (i.e., hydrophilic), oxidized silicon from low-energy (i.e., hydrophobic), fluorinated alkylsilane-coated silicon. The basis of discrimination was consistent with differences between stick-slip friction frequencies generated when sliding the fingertip across the two surfaces. One aspect that was not examined was the presence of surface relief structures on the fingertip. Indeed, papillary ridges-fingerprints-may be involved in enhanced discrimination of fine textur

SUBMITTER: Dhong C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6146067 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature