Adhesion, friction, and mechanical properties of functionalized alkanethiol self-assembled monolayers

We have used interfacial force microscopy to study the adhesion, friction, and mechanical properties of molecular monolayers self-assembled on Au surfaces. This quantitative and stable scanning-probe technique permits detailed studies of these factors. By systematic variation of the chemical nature of the end groups on the monolayers and utilization of standard and intuitive contact-mechanics models, quantitative results are presented of inter- and intrafilm bonding strength as well as the relationship between mechanical behavior and the lateral friction force.