Frictional Characteristics of Graphene on Textured Surfaces

The significance of graphene and other 2D materials as solid-state lubricants has been known for a decade. These atomically thin sheets contain sensitive surface atoms that are responsible for unique frictional characteristics that mainly depend on the nature of the underlying substrates. Thus, interfacial interactions between atomically thin sheets and engineered surfaces enhances interfacial adhesion force and induces strain in the sheets are useful for tuning the friction behaviour. This degree of regulation offers phenomenal advantages in nanoscale electromechanical systems and nanoscale robotics, where a moving mechanical system is needed. The present chapter discusses the importance of straining 2D materials for friction force regulation through engineered surfaces. Several sophisticated methodologies for preparing textured surfaces are highlighted, and modern characterisation techniques, including machine learning tools, which are useful for analysing strain and mechanics in 2D materials, are discussed. Using graphene as a case study, several results from nanoscale friction force microscopy on engineered surface are presented.