A one-dimensional model of friction at nanometric scale

A simple one-dimensional double chain model is used to simulate tribology effects at the nanometric level, via a classical molecular dynamics simulation. The two chain modulate each other and, when pulled parallel to their common direction, slide and pull the modulation along on the other chain. The equilibrium velocity as a function of the pulling force amplitude shows several different regions, either “smooth” or “rough” depending on the stability of the velocity.