Control of friction by shear induced phase transitions

Controlling frictional behavior can be made possible when relationships are established between the macroscopic frictional response and the microscopic properties of sheared molecular systems. Here an approach is suggested for modifying the frictional response through shear induced phase transitions in a mixed lubricant monolayer of a base solvent and an additive. The solvent-additive intermolecular interaction and relative concentration are shown to be the major parameters in determining the friction force magnitude and the nature of the response (stick-slip or sliding).