Molecular dynamics simulation of a nanoscale sliding layer system

A molecular dynamic simulation result is obtained for a nanoscale sliding layer system, with an emphasis on lattice structural changes and temperature variation induced by friction. A model for a stationary and moving layer of aluminum is analyzed at different sliding speeds. The model shows that the average temperature of the molecular structure increases rapidly during the transient period. The change of the FCC structure to an amorphous structure in the stationary layer is observed when the temperature rapidly increases. The characteristics of the frictional effects are revealed by a change of the frictional force and the coefficient of friction. A negative frictional force can be seen after an abrupt drop of the frictional force at a certain sliding speed.