Interfacial friction at action: Interactions, regulation, and applications

Abstract Friction is a fundamental force that impacts almost all interface-related applications. Over the past decade, there is a revival in our basic understanding and practical applications of the friction. In this review, we discuss the recent progress on solid-liquid interfacial friction from the perspective of interfaces. We first discuss the fundamentals and theoretical evolution of solid-liquid interfacial friction based on both bulk interactions and molecular interactions. Then, we summarize the interfacial friction regulation strategies manifested in both natural surfaces and artificial systems, focusing on how liquid, solid, gas, and hydrodynamic coupling actions mediate interfacial friction. Next, we discuss some practical applications that are inhibited or reinforced by interfacial friction. At last, we present the challenges to further understand and regulate interfacial friction.