F221004 Real time TEM observation of nano-mechanics using MEMS combined with TEM

Abstract

The observation of nano-scale deformation in real time is a significant step toward understanding the mechanisms of friction and lubrication. Our experimental setup of a micromachine combined with a transmission electron microscope allowed us to measure the deformation, force and cross-sectional area of a single Ag asperity. The experimental results provided insight into one of the parameters that determines the frictional coefficient. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the energy loss associated with a shear fracture event is strongly correlated with the increase in total surface energy of the two surfaces formed here after the fracture of the nanocontact.