Mechanics at the interfaces of 2D materials: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

At the interfaces of 2D materials, the solid-state condensed matter physics is closely intertwined with the mechanics in terms of adhesion/separation and friction as well as deformation of 2D materials. With atomically thin 2D layers in atomically close proximity, the chemical, physical, and mechanical interactions simultaneously evolve and influence each other, leading to a wide range of topological structures and properties across nano- and micro-scales. Can the study on the mechanics of interfaces help to understand the physics and chemistry at the interfaces of 2D materials or vice versa? This Opinion aims to highlight the recent mechanics research on such material interfaces, where a multiscale, multidisciplinary effort is most effective moving forward with plenty of challenges and opportunities.