Surface forces between mica surfaces confining inorganic nanoparticle dispersions and frictional properties

- Organically coated ceria nanoparticles have the tendency to adsorb on mica.
- The adsorbed nanoparticles were studied by the surface forces apparatus.
- The measured surface forces exhibit a hysteresis after compression.
- The nanotribology of the particles was investigated by shear measurements.
- Confined particle films significantly reduce the friction between mica surfaces.