Abstract
Maximum friction coefficients of common minerals can be characterized by empirical Byerlee's rule, however, some important fault-forming minerals such as mica and clay minerals have ultimately low friction coefficient. The layered structure and high affinity to water should be related to the low friction coefficient. We have investigated the interlayer bonding energy, adsorption energy of water molecules, and physical properties of adsorbed water by using molecular simulations, surface x-ray scattering, and surface forces measurements. These results were used for interpreting the weak friction coefficients of layered minerals.
