Abstract
Literature data are interpreted to formulate an original mechanism of MoS2 film degradation by tribooxidation and elucidate the synergistic effects of graphite in extending the wear life of burnished or bonded MoS2 layers. It is shown that the known but previously unexplained reduction in hexagonal platelet displacement in the direction of tangential shear and blister formation within the films are probably caused by oxidation. The molar volume reduction during the conversion of MoS2 into its stable oxide results in roughening of the interlaminar surfaces by oxidative etch-pitting at the slip steps and at the basal plane defect sites of MoS2 crystallites. It is proposed that interlocking of the pitted crystallites, combined with the formation of SO2 trapped and frictionally heated along with other gases in the coalesced free volume regions, is responsible for reduced shear, the formation of blisters and catastrophic delamination of the films. It is further suggested that the much slower oxidizing graphite...
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