Coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of adhesion on UV-patterned nanometer-thick liquid lubricant films

Using coarse-graining molecular dynamics, we investigated the adhesive properties of UV-patterned nanometer-thick liquid lubricant films coated on a solid substrate with respect to the approach and withdrawal movements of a solid probe. Same as experimental results, the simulations showed that masked UV irradiation induced a concave-convex surface structure on the lubricant films. As compared with non-UV-irradiated and uniformly-irradiated films, UV-patterned films were characterized by a rapid decrease in adhesion when the solid probe was in contact with the convex region.