Tuning nanoscale adhesive contact behavior to a near ideal Hertzian state via graphene coverage

We carry out molecular statics (MS) simulations to study the indentation process of Pt (1 1 1) surfaces using an indenter with radius 5–20 nm. The substrate and are either bare or graphene-covered. Our show that influence adhesion between tip can be significantly reduced by decreasing strength range atoms on indenter, enhancing stiffness. results suggest elastic response exhibits weaker after coating graphene layers side contacting interface, which is attributed weak interaction layers. Based these principles obtained for substrate, nanoscale contact behavior tuned into a near-ideal Hertzian state increasing number layers, applying pre-strains large indenters. Therefore, even strong tip, graphene, mechanical properties determined nanoindentation coverage. research provides theoretical guidance designing adhesion-less coatings AFM probes MEMS/NEMS systems.