Feature article: How do they stick together? The statics and dynamics of interfaces

Abstract

The understanding of interfaces between unlike solids is recognized as important both from the traditional static perspective (‘What is the work of adhesion?’) and dynamically (e.g. ‘Can one predict friction and wear?’). These questions have also broadened to cover interfacial control, for instance effects on carrier transport and epitaxial relations. We address these issues by atomic-scale modelling, using mainly molecular dynamics combined with self-consistent chemistry. First we shall contrast the systems where chemical bonding is a key component (such as polyimide-metal) with those where the chemistry primarily determines which interface controls adhesion (such as oxide-metal). Second, we shall comment on the other roles of electrons: charge transfer, polarization, and dispersion forces. Third, we shall discuss the interactions which determine friction and wear in atomic force microscopy and indicate how these can be related to macroscopic tribological behaviour.