MOLECULAR ASPECTS OF BOUNDARY LUBRICATION

Recent molecular dynamics computer simulations of boundary lubrication , in which the lubricant and sliding solid surfaces are represented at an atomistic level, have given new insights into the mechanism of bou ndary lubrication. Combined with recent data from experiments on slidi ng surfaces, these simulations have forced us to modify our traditiona l view of lubrication in this regime. Stick-slip behaviour at low slid ing velocities, discontinuous shear velocity profiles across the gap a nd lubricant states oscillating between solid-like and liquid-like ext remes are some of the phenomena that occur in boundary lubrication. Th e Eyring model is discussed and directions for improvements proposed t hat would encompass stick-slip behaviour. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd