Abstract
We show, by means of molecular dynamics simulations, that the transformation from diamond to amorphous carbon occurring while sliding under pressure can be prevented by having at least two graphene layers between the diamond slabs. The resulting reduction of wear makes this combination of materials suitable for new coatings and micro- and nanoelectromechanical devices. Grain boundaries, vacancies and steps on the diamond surface do not change this prediction. We attribute this behavior to the bonding in layered materials like graphene. The strong in-plane bonding and the weak interlayer interaction that evolves to a strong interlayer repulsion under pressure prevent the transition to amorphous carbon when more than one layer is present.
Highlights
By means of molecular dynamics simulations, that the transformation from diamond to amorphous carbon occurring while sliding under pressure can be prevented by having at least two graphene layers between the diamond slabs
The present MEMS/NEMS technology is based on silicon,[5,6] but its poor mechanical, chemical and tribological properties make alternatives desirable and actively sought after.[7,8]
This amorphous layer leads to a high friction coefficient because it has many bonds at the interface
Summary
Fasolino Radboud University Nijmegen, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands (Received 28 March 2014; accepted 23 December 2014; published online 12 January 2015) By means of molecular dynamics simulations, that the transformation from diamond to amorphous carbon occurring while sliding under pressure can be prevented by having at least two graphene layers between the diamond slabs.
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