Slideons

Slideons are a proposed class of excitations described in speculative physics as quasi-particles or collective modes that enable controlled sliding along interfaces between layered materials. The term slideon is derived from the action of sliding motion and is used in some thought experiments and fiction to illustrate friction-modulated transport. In mainstream physics, there is no experimentally confirmed particle or mode known as a slideon; the concept is used mainly as a hypothetical construct to discuss friction, lubrication, and interfacial dynamics.

Theoretical idea: In models, slideons arise as topological or vibronic modes localized at an interfacial region of two-dimensional or layered solids, with a dispersion that minimizes energy for in-plane sliding. They would interact weakly with bulk phonons, offering reduced resistance to motion along the interface. Their effective mass would be small, and their velocity could be tuned by strain, interlayer distance, or chemical intercalation.

Formation and detection: Proposed to emerge in van der Waals heterostructures under external fields or specific temperatures. Potential detection methods include inelastic neutron or X-ray scattering, electron tunneling spectroscopy, or nanoscale friction measurements.

Applications and status: If realized, slideons could enable ultra-low-friction actuators, high-density data storage, or energy-efficient nanoscale devices. As of today, no experimental observation has confirmed slideons; research remains in the realm of theoretical exploration, simulational studies, and speculative discussions.

See also: tribology, quasi-particle, phonon, moiré patterns, van der Waals heterostructures.