PARTICLES 2025

A Theoretical Study on Friction of Macroscale Patterned Surfaces: Implications for Structural Superlubricity

  • Ho, Viet Hung (Norwegian University of Science and Technolog)

Please login to view abstract download link

"Structural superlubricity," a state of frictionless interaction between crystalline surfaces, has been observed at both the nanoscale and microscale [1], but achieving it at the macroscale remains an challenge. This study theoretically explores the frictional behavior of macroscale patterned surfaces composed of microscale bumps. Using the discrete element method in LAMMPS [2], we conduct numerical simulations incorporating the Hertz contact model and a modified tangential Mindlin contact model which can present the nonlinear relationship between the coefficient of friction and normal load. Our findings indicate that factors such as the radius of microscale bumps, coating durability, and surface elasticity play a crucial role in friction behavior. Additionally, we analytically examine the deformation mechanisms of the surface structure and derive scaling laws that describe parameter dependencies and the breakdown of superlubricity. The simulation results align closely with analytical predictions, confirming power-law scaling of various quantities with the total macroscopic load. Lastly, we investigate the effects of imperfect conditions, specifically how height variations influence frictional performance.