Institut Charles Sadron Event

Lipids, essential components of biological membranes, form layers separated by nanometric water films that provide lubrication for almost all contacting surfaces in biology. This lubrication relies on the complex interaction between the hydration of lipid heads and electrostatic forces. This thesis explores these mechanisms using X-ray and neutron reflectivity techniques to analyze the interplay between hydration and electrostatics in strong coupling regimes. Additionally, tribology experiments combined with velocimetry link structure to friction and identify slip planes, offering a better understanding of friction and energy dissipation mechanisms in lipid layers.