MEMS Lubrication: An Atomistic Perspective of a Bound + Mobile Lubricant

Abstract

AbstractThe adhesive pressure needed to separate two ocatdecyltrichlorosilane (ODTS) coated surfaces both with and without the addition of tricresyl phosphate (TCP) as a function of separation rate is characterized using molecular dynamics simulation. The simulations predict that when TCP is added between surfaces the adhesive pressure needed for separation is reduced compared to the system containing ODTS only. Both the adhesive pressure and the break up of the TCP layers exhibit a separation rate dependence that appears unrelated to the rate of diffusion of TCP on the ODTS. The ability of the TCP to remain localized to defected areas of the ODTS layer upon normal separation of the contact is also characterized. It is found that the TCP remains localized to defect sites, which effectively coats the damaged area.