Enhanced corrosion-resistance in nanocrystalline MoSi2 films enabled by Cr additions

► The substitution of Mo by Cr is beneficial to improve the corrosion resistance of nanocrystalline (Mo1 − xCrx)Si2 films. ► The addition of Cr to MoSi2 slightly decreases the strength of the SiSi bond. ► The addition of Cr to MoSi2 is favorable for the formation of a protective oxide layer.