19 research outputs found
Nanofriction in Cold Ion Traps
Sliding friction between crystal lattices and the physics of cold ion traps
are so far non-overlapping fields. Two sliding lattices may either stick and
show static friction or slip with dynamic friction; cold ions are known to form
static chains, helices, or clusters, depending on trapping conditions. Here we
show, based on simulations, that much could be learnt about friction by
sliding, via e.g. an electric field, the trapped ion chains over a periodic
corrugated potential. Unlike infinite chains where, according to theory, the
classic Aubry transition to free sliding may take place, trapped chains are
always pinned. Nonetheless we find that a properly defined static friction
still vanishes Aubry-like at a symmetric-asymmetric structural transition,
ubiquitous for decreasing corrugation in both straight and zig-zag trapped
chains. Dynamic friction can also be addressed by ringdown oscillations of the
ion trap. Long theorized static and dynamic one dimensional friction phenomena
could thus become exquisitely accessible in future cold ion tribology