Enhancing irradiation tolerance and inducing superlubricity in MoS2/W multilayer film exposed to atomic oxygen
Abstract Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a ubiquitous lubricant for use in outer space. Here, we present a MoS2/W nano-multilayer film engineered through precise structural optimization by fine-tuning sputtering parameters. This architecture, featuring alternating metallic W layers and highly oriente...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Nature Portfolio
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Communications Materials |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s43246-025-00884-2 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a ubiquitous lubricant for use in outer space. Here, we present a MoS2/W nano-multilayer film engineered through precise structural optimization by fine-tuning sputtering parameters. This architecture, featuring alternating metallic W layers and highly oriented MoS2 layers, restricts oxidation depth to less than 25 nm (2.7×1021 atoms·cm−2)—just one-23rd of that observed in composite structure—outperforming previously reported space lubricants. Intriguingly, the metal oxide nanoparticles formed during atomic oxygen irradiation further reduce friction, enabling robust superlubricity with a friction coefficient of ~0.008. Our approach, bolstered by theoretical calculations and experiments, elucidates that this achievement is facilitated by the dual strengthening of the nano-multilayer structure and the in-situ generation of high-concentration, small-sized oxide nanoparticles at the contact interface. These findings provide invaluable insights into the design of irradiation-resistant and durable lubricating materials for space applications. |
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| ISSN: | 2662-4443 |