  We have characterized the frictional properties of nanostructured (ns) carbon
films grown by Supersonic Cluster Beam Deposition (SCBD) via an Atomic
Force-Friction Force Microscope (AFM-FFM). The experimental data are discussed
on the basis of a modified Amonton's law for friction, stating a linear
dependence of friction on load plus an adhesive offset accounting for a finite
friction force in the limit of null total applied load. Molecular Dynamics
simulations of the interaction of the AFM tip with the nanostructured carbon
confirm the validity of the friction model used for this system. Experimental
results show that the friction coefficient is not influenced by the
nanostructure of the films nor by the relative humidity. On the other hand the
adhesion coefficient depends on these parameters.
