Paper TR+NS+EM+NC-WeA10
The Effect of Tip Size on Frictional Forces in Self-Assembled Monolayers

Wednesday, October 22, 2008, 4:40 pm, Room 205

Molecular dynamics simulations have been used to investigate the differences in molecular forces between a nominally flat tip, which is infinite in extent, and a spherical tip when both tips are in sliding contact with a self-assembled monolayer. The simulation technique used provides a method for evaluating contact forces of individual atoms, which are defined as the force between single atoms and the sliding tip. From this, atoms can be described as either contributing forces that push the tip forward, or resist the forward movement of the tip. Multiple loads are applied to both tip shapes during sliding, providing the opportunity to investigate force propagation as a dependence on load. Additionally, geometrical information such as the occurrence of gauche defects during sliding is investigated.