Understanding Sliding Interfaces to Master Tribological Systems Across Length Scales

Tribology is the science of the friction, adhesion, and wear that occur between contacting bodies. It also includes the study of lubrication, which is the way to control these phenomena. Tribology is as old as humankind but has only been recognized as a science for approximately half a century. Making fire and making tools out of stone or wood all rely on tribological processes. Mastering these processes through trial and error, as well as transmitting the collective "know-how" has been the traditional way industry operated. With the development of engineering, the need to turn the collective "know-how" into science-based knowledge eventually led to the emergence of tribology as a science. Nevertheless, a major reason for the late appearance of this science is related to its complexity. The phenomena that govern sliding interfaces are generally a combination of mechanical, physical, and chemical contributions. Moreover, they are strongly affected by the nature of the contacting bodies and thus rely on the properties of the materials in contact. Furthermore, these interactions take place across many different length scales, beginning with interactions from the atoms up to larger length scales. Over the several last decades, the performance of engineering systems has been the leading force in tribology. More recently, environmental issues have emerged and become an important topic in tribology. Our modern world is now facing its limits, and efficiency, both in terms of energy and resources, has become a critical challenge. Scientists and engineers must work together not only to promote advances in tribology, but also to include tribology as early as possible in the industrial design process.

With these things in mind, the 2022 GRC will aim to foster discussions between tribologists and engineers and to better understand sliding interfaces with an eye toward mastering tribological systems. In the tradition of this conference, we expect a lively and productive exchange of results and ideas in an informal atmosphere that welcomes a richly diverse audience. The meeting will include invited talks on late-breaking results by leading researchers and will offer extended discussions around excellent contributed posters.

The 2022 GRC on Tribology will be preceded by a Gordon Research Seminar, giving young tribologists the opportunity to present their work to their peers in an unintimidating atmosphere and build networks with their peers. Industry and academic speakers will talk about career paths, and important open questions and future opportunities related to tribology. We expect lively, informative discussions for the emerging generation of tribologists.