Microstructure and tribological properties of WS2/MoS2 multilayer films

► The WS2/MoS2 multilayer film has a smooth appearance. ► The WS2/MoS2 multilayer film has high yield strength. ► The alternating structure of WS2 and MoS2 layers shows an effective synergistic role. ► The WS2/MoS2 multilayer film has better anti-friction and wear resistance properties under both room and high temperature. In this paper, a novel method, namely, magnetron sputtering and low temperature ion sulfurizing combined technique was used to fabricate the solid lubrication WS2/MoS2 multilayer films. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the surface and worn scar morphologies. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was utilized to analyze the phase structure. The nano-hardness and elastic modulus of WS2/MoS2 multilayer films were surveyed by the nano-indentation tester. The friction and wear test were conducted on a ball-on-disk wear tester under dry sliding condition. The results obtained showed that the WS2/MoS2 multilayer films exhibited a lower friction coefficient and better wear-resistance when compared with single WS2 film and original 1045 steel.