Theory of friction: The role of elasticity in boundary lubrication

Abstract

I analyze the sliding motion of an elastic block on a substrate with a layer of lubrication molecules. This model of boundary lubrication illustrates how the surface stress generated by the lubrication layer at the block-substrate interface is transmitted to the upper surface of the block. It shows that it is essential to correctly incorporate the elastic properties of the block and of the substrate; otherwise, incorrect results will result. In light of the theoretical results I discuss the sliding friction measurements of Yoshizawa and Israelachvili.