Fabrication of self-lubricating cobalt coatings on metal surfaces

Abstract

Composite coatings of Co + fullerene-like WS2 nanoparticles on stainless steel substrate were obtained through electroless deposition, using DMAB (dimethyl borane complex, 97%) as the reducing agent, and by electroplating in acidic solution. Phase analysis results show that the coatings consist of Co and the fullerene-like WS2 nanoparticles alone. Tribological measurements show reduced wear and friction of the composite coatings as compared with the pure cobalt film or the stainless steel substrate.