Nanoscale Friction Mechanisms at Solid-Liquid Interfaces.

The article discusses an atomic force microscope (AFM)-based method for characterizing a nanoscale friction mechanism. The AFM-based method measures friction and adhesion forces. According to the authors, this method allows for the detection of a friction mechanism they call desorption stick. The role of surface topography in friction behavior is explained. The authors note that the characterization of desorption stick is likely to guide the development of low-friction surface coatings.