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NASA NTRS · 19890067124

Avalanche in adhesion

Abstract

Consider surfaces being brought into contact. It is proposed that atomic layers can collapse or avalanche together when the interfacial spacing falls below a critical distance. This causes a discontinuous drop in the adhesive binding energy. Avalanche can occur regardless of the stiffness of external supports. A simple understanding of the origin of this phenomenon is provided. A numerical calculation has been carried out for adhesion in Ni. A new wear mechanism due to avalanche is suggested.

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BibTeXRIS

Smith, John R., Bozzolo, Guillermo, Banerjea, Amitava, Ferrante, John. 1989-09-18. Avalanche in adhesion. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19890067124

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