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Summary:Tribology is the science and technology of interacting surfaces in relative motion and includes studies of friction, adhesion, lubrication, and wear. Understanding interrelated tribological phenomena is critical for most mechanical devices, as demonstrated by applications in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries. Today, these issues are the focus of significant studies in emerging technologies involving micro- and nanoscale mechanical components and present new technical challenges for tribologists. The goal of this project is to develop measurement techniques and instrumentation that enable us to isolate different mechanisms that govern friction at the nanoscale. Description:Friction and wear are major causes of mechanical failures and dissipative energy losses. These shortfalls account for a significant portion of the annual gross domestic product in the United States, amounting to approximately $800 billion in 2010. It is estimated that tens of billions of U.S. dollars could be saved by the proper use of lubricants. In response to this need, both solid and liquid lubricants have been developed to minimize frictional energy losses, reduce equipment maintenance, and extend device lifetimes. Today, these issues are the focus of significant studies in emerging technologies involving micro- and nanoscale mechanical components and present new technical challenges for tribologists working at the nanoscale. |
Lead Organizational Unit:cnstFacilities/Tools Used:Staff:Rachel Cannara - NIST Contact
Rachel Cannara, Phone 301-975-4258 NIST |