Velocity dependence of kinetic friction by multi-scale Quantum Mechanics/Green's Function molecular dynamics

TL;DR

This study uses a hybrid quantum mechanics and Green's function molecular dynamics method to explore how kinetic friction varies with sliding velocity at a diamond interface, revealing two distinct regimes and underlying physical mechanisms.

Contribution

It introduces a novel hybrid simulation approach, QM-GF, for accurately modeling velocity-dependent friction at the atomic scale, bridging chemistry and phononic effects.

Findings

Friction decreases with increasing sliding velocity.

Two distinct sliding regimes identified at low and high speeds.

Physical interpretation based on periodic potential energy surface modulation.

Abstract

Atomistic simulations are powerful tools for investigating tribological phenomena at a fundamental level; however, simulating a tribological system remains challenging due to the multiscale nature of frictional processes. Recently, we introduced a hybrid method, QM-GF, that enables an accurate description of both interfacial chemistry and phononic dissipation in semi-infinite bulks. In this work, we apply this simulation scheme to study the dependence of kinetic friction on sliding velocity. Using a prototypical diamond interface with varying hydrogen coverages, we find that the friction force decreases with increasing sliding velocity, revealing two distinct sliding regimes at low and high speeds. We provide a physical interpretation of this velocity dependence based on the modulation of the frictional force by the sliding motion over the periodic potential energy surface of the interface. High velocities lead to force cancellation, while low velocities result in a net frictional force characterized by a distinctive sawtooth profile.