Molecular lubricants and glues for micro- and nanodevices

Research advances in molecular coatings from functional polymeric and organ ic molecules designed as molecular lubricants or molecular glues for micro- and nanodevices are presented here, with a focus on organized molecular pi nts from amphiphilic molecules, molecules with reactive ends and functional oligomers. The interfacial properties of molecular coatings critical for t heir lubrication (see Figure) or adhesive performance at the nanoscale are discussed in conjunction with results on molecular structure and morphology of these coatings. Examples of the latest developments in the field of nan ocomposite molecular coatings and applications of molecular lubrication con cepts for computer hard drives are presented.