Doctoral Researcher
Research Area C
Faculty of Engineering | Department of Microsystems Engineering University of Freiburg
Email: safora.jafari@imtek.uni-freiburg.de
Programmable Friction in Surface-Attached Hydrogels for Smart and Adaptive Interfaces Friction, the resistance to motion between two surfaces, is a fundamental phenomenon observed everywhere, from walking and writing with a pen to the wear of machine parts. In nature, living systems often exploit friction control for functions such as gripping, locomotion, and protection. Inspired by these ideas, surface-attached hydrogels have emerged as soft materials that can provide extremely low friction when hydrated, making them attractive for biomedical devices, coatings, and soft robotics. However, maintaining stable lubrication over time and under varying conditions remains a major challenge. My current research focuses on developing strategies for programmable friction, where the tribological properties of hydrogel interfaces can be actively tuned by external triggers such as changes in environment or applied fields. This approach not only addresses the limitations of passive hydrogel lubrication but also opens new opportunities for adaptive, smart surfaces that respond dynamically to their surroundings.
Prof. Dr. Jürgen Rühe