Friction Force Distributions on Micro-Patterned Surfaces under Lubricated Condition

Abstract

In this study, we characterized the lubrication properties of two different nanostripe patterns comprising micro- and nanogrooves. The friction coefficient distribution was measured using a convex lens as a slider. For the zigzag pattern, friction force depended on the scanning lines when the slider slid along the direction of the apex of the zigzag grooves. For the straight groove pattern, though the friction coefficients were found to periodically undulate along the scan lines with a period equal to the unit pattern, the phase of the undulation was affected by the scanning line. Numerical calculations were conducted to calculate the oil film thickness, and we discussed the relation between the distribution of the friction force and the oil film thickness.