Nanoscale Friction of Ice

Abstract

Friction between macroscopic surfaces sliding relative to each other has been long investigated, nevertheless it still remains one of the most complex and least understood processes in nature. In connection with the success in both experimental and theoretical fields, through the development of nanotribology offering the possibility of understanding atomic-level origins of friction, the subject continues to be re-examined.

In this work we use molecular dynamics simulations to study frictional behavior of an ice-ice system (one of the most interesting systems from friction point of view due to its unusually low friction coefficient and prevalence in life) at the nanoscale, particularly the influence of temperature, applied load and sliding velocity on calculated frictional force. We compare our results to experimental findings and discuss agreement within different ranges of parameters affecting friction. Our work provides useful insight into the field of nanoscale ice friction and can be used as a basis for future development of the field.