Nanotribology: Modeling atoms when surfaces collide
Molecular tribology, or nanotribology, gives us an atomic-scale understanding of the fundamental processes that take place when surfaces in relative motion interact. Researchers at LLNL and elsewhere need to know more about these processes to design and build many ultra-precise components, including optical devices, very smooth surfaces, and computer chips. The authors are applying a type of realistic computer modeling developed at LLNL, called molecular dynamics modeling, to study what happens when different materials, such as metals and glass, undergo cutting, grinding, cracking, and other processes associated with fabrication. They have found, for example, that both metals and ceramics behave in a ductile manner when one simulates machining on the nanometer length scale. However, the mechanisms underlying deformation are quite different in the two types of materials. Metals, such as copper, remain crystalline and deform through dislocation mechanisms. In contrast, covalent materials, such as silicon, transform into an amorphous state, which flows. The authors are applying such information to develop more practical engineering guidelines for researchers at LLNL and in the industrial community.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 50542
- Report Number(s):
- UCRL-52000-94-8/9; ON: DE95004248; TRN: 95:000413-0001
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: [1994]; Related Information: Is Part Of Energy and Technology Review, August--September 1994; Bookless, W.A.; PB: 41 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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