Computer simulation of sliding hydroxylated alumina surfaces

A molecular dynamics simulation is performed to investigate the frictional force and energy transfer dynamics associated with sliding hydroxylated alumina surfaces. The calculated coefficient of friction is in good agreement with a recent experimental study. The dynamics of energy transfer from the interface of the sliding surface is investigated by calculating the surface–surface intermolecular potential and the energy in surface hydroxyl groups. The simulations indicate the experimental friction force arises from energy relaxation. A transition from stick–slip to smooth sliding is observed as the sliding velocity is increased. This revised version was published online in September 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.