Toward the Ultimate Tribological Interface: Surface Chemistry and Nanotribology of Ultrananocrystalline Diamond

Abstract

Ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) may offer a solution to tribological failure of silicon-based micromachines because of its outstanding mechanical properties. The first measurements of nanometer-scale adhesion and friction on the tribologically relevant underside of UNCD films (see Figure) are reported, revealing that the UNCD films are far less adhesive than silicon and confirming their potential for use in micro- and nanomachines. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2089/2005/c1264_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.