Rolling friction at a microscopic scale is studied with the help of a simple two-dimensional model. Molecular dynamics simulations show that rolling of spherical lubricant molecules exists only for concentrations lower than the concentration of a close-packed layer. At concentrations higher than a critical one due to jamming of lubricant molecules the rolling of nearest neighboring molecules is hindered. An optimal concentration exists which provides the minimum of kinetic friction. Methods for avoiding jamming and increasing the range of operation of rolling mechanism of friction are discussed.

• Received 30 May 2005

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.95.126104