Size and load dependence of nanoscale electric contact resistance

摘要: Nanoscale electrical resistance between a platinum-coated atomic force microscope tip and highly oriented pyrolytic graphite surface is measured as function of normal load radius. These measurements are complemented by molecular dynamics simulations that relate radius to contact area. Simulation-predicted area experimentally-measured used calculate resistivity. The results show the effect on can be captured real area, while size, although in part affects resistivity itself, potentially through interface distance. Our study provides new insight into geometry nanoscale electric and, more significantly, highlights role atomic-scale features determining resistance.