Lubrication mechanisms are of considerable interest in maintaining and improving mechanical reliability of magnetic storage systems. There have been many attempts to develop a detailed understanding of the nature of the lubrication process and the role that various contributing factors play. The aim of this paper is to examine the tribological behavior of various lubricants and to highlight the factors most responsible for a satisfactory performance of the head/disk interface. Topics pertaining to lubricant chemistry and its degradation mechanisms, surface morphology and surface chemistry, interactions between the lubricant molecules and the overcoat surface, surface mobility and autophobicity of the lubricant films are covered. The effect of file contaminants, including water, on stiction and durability is also discussed. Experimental data are presented whenever possible to support the relevant theories or discussed concepts.
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