Identifying the origin of macroscopic friction between clay mineral surfaces

Researchers have discovered for the first time, through theoretical calculation and experiment that macroscopic frictions occurring between clay mineral surfaces originate from interatomic electrostatic forces between these surfaces. This finding may facilitate the design of solid lubricant materials and understanding of earthquake-causing fault slip mechanisms.

from Top Technology News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/01/190124095119.htm