Molecular Lubricants and Glues for Micro- and Nanodevices

Research advances in molecular coatings from functional polymeric and organic molecules designed as molecular lubricants or molecular glues for micro- and nanodevices are presented here, with a focus on organized molecular films from amphiphilic molecules, molecules with reactive ends and functional oligomers. The interfacial properties of molecular coatings critical for their lubrication (see Figure) or adhesive performance at the nanoscale are discussed in conjunction with results on molecular structure and morphology of these coatings. Examples of the latest developments in the field of nanocomposite molecular coatings and applications of molecular lubrication concepts for computer hard drives are presented.