Technology update
Nov 1, 2007
Heavy atoms reduce nanoscale friction
If you want to reduce the friction between tiny objects, just increase the mass of the atoms at one surface, say researchers in the US. Heavier atoms vibrate at lower frequencies than their lighter couterparts, which the team has shown reduces the energy lost as heat as two materials rub against each other. The result could be useful for designing nanomaterials with specific frictional properties and may even provide a better fundamental understanding of friction -- something that is lacking today.
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