Research Overview

Our research focuses on the study friction, plasticity and wear at the nanoscale using atomic force microscopy (AFM).  We investigate these problems on simple materials and determine the fundamental physical mechanisms by which they occur.  By approaching these complex engineering problems at the atomic-length scale, we can reduce the complexity of the problems significantly.  With these experiments, we hope to be able to predictively determine material parameters such as friction coefficients, plasticity/hardness, and wear rates, which will be critical in the development of the next generation materials and lubricants.

The image on the right shows atomic stick-slip friction on an alkanethiol self-assembled monolayer grown on a Au(111) substrate.  Atomic lattice resolution is achieved, however, single atomic defects cannot be observed due to the "large" multi-atom contact between the AFM tip and the surface.  Using AFM, we are able to resolve foces much less than 1 nN, as shown in the line profile below, which approaches the strength of single atomic bonds.

We are also able to take advantage of other modes of AFM to obtain true atomic resolution of surfaces.  On the left is an example of true atomic resolution of the (100) surface of potassium bromide (KBr).  We can identify the high resolution capability of the AFM by observing single atomic vacancies at the surface.

Group Picture - July 2022

Group Picture - July 2022

Atomic resolution image of KBr(001) surface showing a single atomic defect.

Atomic resolution image of KBr(001) surface showing a single atomic defect.

Contact

Egberts Research Group

Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
University of Calgary

40 Research Place NW
Calgary, Alberta
T2L 1Y6
Canada

Phone: (403)-220-7678
Office: MEB 517
Email: philip.egberts@ucalgary.ca

View of Lake Moraine near Banff - 2 hrs from Calgary

Openings

We are currently searching for highly motivated and dedicated students to join the group.  Please email Dr. Egberts if you are interested in joining, and include a description of your research background, a current CV, and a short one page statement of why you want to study nanoscience and/or friction.  Please see the department guidelines to ensure that you will meet the requirements for admission to the department.