Skin tribology in sport. Issue 3 (7th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: MacFarlane, Maxwell James; Theobald, Peter
• Is Part Of: Biosurface and biotribology. Volume 7:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 118
• Publication Date: 2021-07-07
• Subjects: Tribology -- Periodicals; Biomedical materials -- Periodicals; Tribology -- Congresses -- Periodicals; Biomedical materials -- Congresses -- Periodicals; Biological interfaces -- Congresses -- Periodicals; Biological interfaces; Biomedical materials; Tribology; Biocompatible Materials; Surface Properties; Materials Testing; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodical; Electronic journals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1049/bsb2.12015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2405-4518

Abstract

Abstract: This review describes the principles of skin friction and wear for the benefit of sports scientists, engineers and clinicians. Skin exhibits complex behaviour, defying tribological laws for dry contact; hence, its friction and wear characteristics are affected by sliding speed, normal load, and contact area. Some sports seek to increase skin friction to enhance performance; however, this needs to be offset against injury risk given that skin abrades when slid across a rough and hard surface, delaminates when slid across a smooth and hard surface, and chafes or blisters when repeatedly rubbed against some fabrics. Whilst skin interactions can both define and hinder athlete performance, there exists a need to better understand skin biomechanics to optimise the balance of risk versus reward.