Enhancing mechanical performance and high-temperature lubrication enabled by MoS2/WB2 nanolayered films

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) films are widespread application in aerospace, nuclear, mechanical, and electronic fields owing to their unique structural characteristics and inherent interlayer slip. However, their utility is hindered by environmental susceptibility, particularly oxidation at elevated temperatures and in humid environments, limiting their effectiveness. Herein, we report a nanocomposite integrating MoS2 with WB2 by periodic alternating arrangement, synthesized using magnetron sputtering technology. This nanolayered architecture effectively harnesses the synergistic properties of both materials, imparting exceptional mechanical properties, superior environmental adaptability and efficient high-temperature lubrication. Methodical experiments and atomistic simulations reveal the incorporation of WB2 promotes preferential growth of MoS2 along the (002) plane, yielding an impressive hardness-to-elastic modulus ratio of approximately 0.1. The resultant film demonstrates notable achievements: a minimal friction coefficient of 0.056 and a specific wear rate of 1.88 × 10−7 mm3 N−1 m−1 in humid air. These findings are primarily stem from the interaction between MoS2 nanosheets and metal-oxide nanoparticles at the sliding interface. Remarkably, even at 400 °C, the engineered MoS2/WB2 nanocomposite achieves low friction and wear under high contact stress, outperforming conventional MoS2-based materials. This innovative design, complemented by insights into the high-temperature friction mechanism, holds promise for advancing the development of robust and high-temperature-resistant lubricants.