Enhancing PEO coating on TC6 alloy through in-situ synthesis of MoSe2—Towards more efficient wear-reducing lubrication and wear resistance

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) has demonstrated significant enhancements in the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of titanium alloys. Despite these advantages, the presence of micropores and microcracks in the coating can still detrimentally impact tribological properties. This paper introduces a novel approach involving the in-situ growth of a surface structure. The resulting interface structure exhibits outstanding tribological properties under a load of 3 N and a speed of 1.5 cm/s. In contrast to prior studies, improvements are made to the electrical parameters and electrolyte formula of Plasma electrolytic oxidation, facilitating the in-situ growth of MoSe2. This results in the formation of a lubricating layer and a robust TiO2 ceramic coating with excellent adhesion. A systematic analysis of friction, wear characteristics, reveals that MoSe2 in situ grow on the surface of the PEO coating, within micropores, microcracks, and crater structures after hydrothermal treatment. This process significantly enhances the microporous structure of the coating, with the MoSe2 film forming a dense and uniform interlocking layer with the PEO lower layer. Dry friction test experiments demonstrate a 33.7% reduction in friction coefficient and a 29% decrease in wear rate compared to the PEO sample, indicating the synergistic effect between the MoSe2 film and the PEO coating.