Relationship between corrosion and nanoscale friction on a metallic glass

Metallic glasses are promising materials for micro-devices, where corrosion and friction limit their effectiveness and durability. We investigated nanoscale friction on a metallic glass in corrosive solutions after different immersion times using atomic force microscopy to elucidate the influence of corrosion on nanoscale friction. The evolution of friction upon repeated scanning cycles on the corroded surfaces reveals a bilayer surface oxide film, where the outer layer is removed by the scanning tip. Friction and adhesion after different immersion times in different solutions allow to compare the physicochemical processes of surface dissolution at the interfaces of the two layers. The findings contribute to the understanding of mechanical contacts with metallic glasses in corrosive conditions by exploring the interrelation of microscopic corrosion mechanisms and nanoscale friction.