A study of MoSi₂-MoS₂ coatings fabricated by SHS casting route

Coatings were fabricated on a steel substrate by a self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) casting route. The processing is described in detail. The phases in the coating were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The microstructures of the coatings were analyzed with optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA). Tribological properties and microhardness of the coatings with 6-12 wt.% MoS₂ were measured. The experimental results show that the coatings were composed of MoSi₂ and MoS₂ phases and coatings with 6-12 wt.% MoS₂ had dense microstructure. Metallurgical bonding had formed between the coatings and the substrate. Friction of the coatings with 6-12 wt.% MoS₂ is lower than its steel substrate. Microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings with 6-12 wt.% MoS₂ are higher than that of the steel substrate. Near the interface microhardness of the coating varies with the distance to the interface.