Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

Atomic Force Microscopy Cantilever-Based Nanoindentation: Mechanical Property Measurements at the Nanoscale in Air and Fluid
Published on: December 2, 2022
Nanoscale friction and wear maps
Nikhil S Tambe1, Bharat Bhushan
1GE Global Research, John F. Welch Technology Center, Plot no. 122, EPIP Phase 2, Hoodi Village, Whitefield Road, Bangalore 560 066, India. nikhil.tambe@ge.com
Abstract:
Friction and wear are part and parcel of all walks of life, and for interfaces that are in close or near contact, tribology and mechanics are supremely important. They can critically influence the efficient functioning of devices and components. Nanoscale friction force follows a complex nonlinear dependence on multiple, often interdependent, interfacial and material properties. Various studies indicate that nanoscale devices may behave in ways that cannot be predicted from their larger counterparts. Nanoscale friction and wear mapping can help identify some 'sweet spots' that would give ultralow friction and near-zero wear. Mapping nanoscale friction and wear as a function of operating conditions and interface properties is a valuable tool and has the potential to impact the very way in which we design and select materials for nanotechnology applications.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Frictional Force
Static and Kinetic Frictional Force
However, if two systems are in contact and are stationary relative to one...
Types of Friction Problems
The first type of dry friction problem involves situations where there is no apparent impending motion.
Dry Friction
To illustrate this concept, imagine a wooden crate resting on a rough, non-uniform horizontal surface. When an external force is applied to...
Kinetic Friction
Characteristics of Dry Friction
Before the wheelbarrow starts moving, the static frictional force acts tangentially to the contact surface, opposing the force that is about to induce the motion. This frictional force prevents the...

