Session H33: Focus Session: Friction, Fracture and Deformation II

11:15 AM–1:39 PM, Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Baltimore Convention Center Room: 336

Sponsoring Units: DMP GSNP
Chair: Udo D. Schwarz, Yale University

Abstract ID: BAPS.2006.MAR.H33.1

Abstract: H33.00001 : Effect of Counterface Roughness on Sliding Friction of Alkane Monolayers

11:15 AM–11:27 AM

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Authors:

  Kevin Van Workum
    (United States Naval Academy)

  Ginger Chateauneuf
  Guangtu Gao
  David Schall
  Judith Harrison

Classical molecular dynamics simulations of carbon-based counterfaces sliding against a monolayer of alkane chains are presented. The tribological behavior three carbon-based counterfaces of varying roughness are compared. The distribution of contact forces between individual monolayer chain groups and the counterface shows a strong dependence on the surface roughness of the counterface. Distinctions between contact forces which oppose and those which assist the counterface motion are made and are related to the net friction. A perfectly smooth counterface shows a realitively narrow distribution of contact forces. The width of the distribution of contact forces increases with increasing counterface roughness. The local motion of the alkane chain end-groups is also discussed in terms of the roughness of the sliding counterface.

To cite this abstract, use the following reference: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2006.MAR.H33.1