Course Objectives

• Understand the mechanisms of adhesion and stiction of thin films.
• Acquire knowledge about the adhesion and stiction measurement techniques.
• Learn about the methods that can reduce stiction of films.

Course Description

Solid-solid adhesion occurs in two contacting solids. A thin liquid film with a small contact angle, present at the interface, can result in the so-called liquid-mediated adhesion. This may result in high adhesion during normal pull and high static friction during sliding, both commonly referred to as "stiction." The problem of high stiction is especially important in an interface involving two very smooth surfaces under lightly loaded conditions. This course provides a critical and comprehensive review of mechanisms of adhesion and stiction, various measurement techniques, and methods used to reduce stiction in magnetic storage devices and MEMS/NEMS.

Course Materials

Course Notes