WC/DLC/WS2 nanocomposite coatings for aerospace tribology

Tribological properties of three-phase composite coatings consisting of nan ocrystalline WC, amorphous diamond-like carbon (DLC), and nanocrystalline W S2 are evaluated. The WC/DLC/WS2 coatings have 0.5 mu m thickness, 7-8 GPa hardness, excellent wear resistance, and low friction coefficients: 0.03 in vacuum, and 0.15 in air; with unique friction recovery in cycling between dry and moist environments. The benefits of carbide/dichalcogenide/DLC nano composites for aerospace tribology are highlighted.