DOI: 10.2298/tsci2503679z ISSN: 0354-9836
Prospective study on molecular friction opportunities, challenges, and applications
Yu-Ting Zuo, Xiao-Xia LiThis paper dives deep into the fascinating world of friction on a molecular scale. It applies the geometric potential theory to reveal some hidden secrets from the incredible mechanical properties of spider silk to the fascinating agglomeration of graphene. A new and promising concept is proposed: that friction can accumulate energy. This has the potential to revolutionize many fields in the future. When coupled with fractal theory, the molecular tribology offers a whole new window to design molecule-scale devices.