Tribological performance of CuS–ZnO nanocomposite film: The effect of CuS doping

CuS–ZnO nanocomposite films were prepared by a simple sol–gel process. The microstructure, morphology, and tribological properties of the prepared films were investigated via X-ray diffractometry (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and by an UMT-2 tribometer. Results show that the films are uniform and compact with hexagonal ZnO phase. The films display excellent wear resistance and friction-reduction performance. Particularly, the molar ratio of 5% CuS of sample “c” obtains the best result. Frictional trace observation suggests that the wear mechanism of the film has slight scuffing, adhesion, and abrasion.

► Polycrystalline compact hexagonal wurtzite structure.
► The suitable addition of CuS into ZnO film could effectively prevent the growth of ZnO grains.
► The best excellent antiwear and friction-reduction performance of the 5CuS–ZnO film.
► Excessive addition of CuS will deteriorate the tribological performance of the ZnO film.