Self-lubricating Ni-P-MoS2 composite coatings

Tribological coatings with low coefficients of friction are in high demand by various industries since they can improve machine efficiency and have an environmental impact. A self-lubricating Ni-P-MoS2 composite coating has been successfully deposited on a mild steel substrate by electrodeposition. The effects of MoS2 on the tribological coatings have been investigated. Compared to a pure Ni-P coating, the Ni-P-MoS2 composite coating exhibited a dramatic reduction in friction coefficient against a bearing steel ball from 0.45 to 0.05. Examination and analysis of the worn surfaces and wear debris, the composite coating showed minimum wear and oxidation compared to the severe wear and oxidation observed in the pure Ni-P coating. The evolution of MoS2 particles in sliding wear has been elucidated. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.