Atomistic Simulations of Solid Friction

Abstract

Friction between two solid bodies in relative sliding motion takesplace on a large spectrum of length and time scales: From the nanometer/secondscale in an atomic force microscope up to the extremely macroscopicscales of tectonic motion. Despite our familiarity with the effectsof friction, fundamental questions remain unanswered. The atomisticorigins of well-established phenomenological friction laws are controversial.Many explanations, seemingly well-established, have recently beencalled into question by new experimental results. Computer simulationshave also revealed flaws in previous theoretical approaches and ledto new insights into the atomistic processes responsible for friction.In this chapter, selected computer simulation studies of frictionand their implications will be discussed. Emphasis will be givento the question what one can learn from a friction simulation andhow it is possible to avoid effects that merely arise due to poormodels. Moreover, it will be outlined how it is possible to gaininsight into tribological processes that take place on macroscopictime scales with the help of atomistic computer simulations, whichare typically constrained to the nanosecond regime.