Effect of Surface Grooves on the Static Friction of an Elastic Slider

Numerous studies have proved the usefulness of surface patterning for the modification of tribological performances of sliding contacts. Here we investigate the effects of patterning on the tribological properties of a slider over a solid substrate. We show that, depending on the numerical density of surface grooves, the tribological properties can change significantly. A low density of surface patterning leads to a decrease of static friction force, while a higher density weakens this effect. The decrease is related to a non-uniform distribution of surface stress induced by patterning. We believe these findings and approach to be relevant for technological applications and related optimal design.