In the framework of JST-PRESTO research project, PRESTO-JST, scientists Shigeki Kawai at the Department of Physics at the University of Basel et al., have succeeded in measuring superlubricity of graphene nanoribbons on a gold surface. The nano friction was characterized by a combination of high-resolution atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy operating at low temperature and molecular dynamic simulation. The presented investigations are not only of interest for the field of physics, but also for engineering since the ultralow friction behavior has a potential to reduce wearing and increase life-time of machineries.
Program Information
JST PRESTO
Research Area “Molecular technology and creation of new functions”
Research Theme “Revealing mechanical, electronic, and chemical properties of molecules at atomic-scale”
Journal Information
Shigeki Kawai, Andrea Benassi, Enrico Gnecco, Hajo Söde, Rémy Pawlak, Xinliang Feng, Klaus Müllen, Daniele Passerone, Carlo A. Pignedoli, Pascal Ruffieux, Roman Fasel, and Ernst Meyer. “Superlubricity of graphene nanoribbons on gold surfaces”. Science, Published online 26 Feb 2016, doi: 10.1126/science.aad3569.
Contact
[About Research]
Shigeki Kawai, Ph.D.
Senior Scientist, Department of Physics, University of Basel
E-mail: 
URL: http://nanolino.unibas.ch/pages/group/shigeki.htm
[About Program]
Sofia Saori Suzuki
Green Innovation Group, Department of Innovation Research, JST
E-mail: 