Preparation and tribological properties of MoS₂-based multiple-layer structured films fabricated by electrohydrodynamic jet deposition

As a kind of solid lubricant, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) plays a pivotal role in reducing wear and friction. How to prepare MoS₂ films with excellent tribological properties has become a research hotspot. In this paper, four kinds of slurries were prepared to deposit pure MoS₂ films, MoS₂/Ti composite films and Ti-MoS₂/Ti multiple-layer structured films on cemented carbide surfaces by electrohydrodynamic jet deposition. The composition and microstructure of the deposited films were investigated. The adhesive strength between the film and the substrate was evaluated by scratch tests. Furthermore, the friction and wear properties were investigated by reciprocating sliding friction tests. The results show that the Ti layer can improve the film-substrate adhesive strength, and the construction of multiple-layer structure can significantly reduce the friction coefficient and prolong the friction life of the MoS₂ films.