What is it about?
We introduce a model system to study rotational friction and present molecular evidence for structural lubricity, Aubry transition, and rupture nucleation. Our results address the question of how molecules rotate on atomically smooth surfaces under mechanical stress and reveal the intimate connection between liquid crystals, friction, and fracture research fields.
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Why is it important?
Every year, approximately 20% of the world's energy is consumed due to friction. Understanding and subsequently reducing friction is vital for energy conservation. However, a simplified fundamental model, known as the Prandtl-Tomlinson (PT) model, for understanding friction is not for realistic processes. Surprisingly, we have realized that a classical model for calculating the free energy of liquid crystals with boundary effects is the three-dimensional version of the PT model. In other words, the seemingly oversimplified PT model is no longer a ghost in simulations but can be tested in a real-world context.
Perspectives
A nearly century-old theory, the Prandtl-Tomlinson model, has been discovered to govern rotational friction at the molecular level, revealing a deep connection between liquid crystals and tribology.
Weichao Zheng
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Experimental testing of the Prandtl–Tomlinson model: Molecular origin of rotational friction, Applied Physics Letters, April 2024, American Institute of Physics,
DOI: 10.1063/5.0195925.
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