C₆₀分子ベアリングによる超潤滑システムの構築

抄録

We systematically discuss frictional properties occurring in atomic-force microscope (AFM) tip on graphite system, the graphite/C₆₀/graphite system, and the C₆₀ intercalated graphite system. Several possible mechanism to induced superlubricity of C₆₀ intercalated graphite system are proposed and discussed. It can be expected that the superlubricity is induced by internal sliding between close-packed C₆₀ monolayers and graphite layers. Our results propose one of the simple guidelines of designing practical superlubric system—reduction of the contact area between intercalated C₆₀ and graphite sheet to the point-like contact. We anticipate our novel lubrication system to be a startpoint for developing more practical superlubricant using intercalated graphite, which will contribute to solving the energy and environmental problems.