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Physicists achieve near-zero friction on macroscopic scales

Physicists achieve near-zero friction on macroscopic scales
Macroscale structural superlubricity at graphite/graphite and graphite/MoS2 interfaces. Credit: Minhao Han et al.

For the first time, physicists in China have virtually eliminated the friction felt between two surfaces at scales visible to the naked eye. In demonstrating “structural superlubricity,” the team, led by Quanshui Zheng at Tsinghua University, have resolved a long-standing debate surrounding the possibility of the effect. Published in Physical Review Letters, the result could potentially lead to promising new advances in engineering.

What structural superlubricity promises
When two objects slide over each other, any roughness on their surfaces will almost inevitably resist the motion, creating the force of friction...

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