MoS2-Ti composite coatings on tool steel by d.c. magnetron sputtering

Deposition of MoS2-Ti composite thin films on the SKD 11 tool steel by d.c. magnetron sputtering was studied. The influence of titanium interlayer and the ratio of MoS2 and titanium on the adhesion and wear resistance of the composite films were investigated. Titanium interlayer extended the wear life of the film significantly. Films containing titanium content in the range of 5 similar to 10 wt.% exhibited the best wear resistance. The improved wear resistance of MoS2-Ti composite films over MoS2 films was probably due to the oxygen gettering by titanium forming TiO2. Wear life of the samples decreased beyond 10 wt.% titanium in the film. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.