We simulate the slider/disk interaction induced Zdol lubricant depletion an
d flow-back dynamics by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF
-SIMS). Experimental results show that the lubricant How rate is inversely
proportional to original lubricant thickness. The flow rate on partially re
moved lubricant layer is much higher than that on lubricant depleted carbon
surface. These could be attributed to the increase in disjoining pressure
gradient with aid of ion beam sputtering on lubricant surfaces.