The tribological performance of DLC-based coating under the solid-liquid lubrication system with sand-dust particles

► Sand-dust increases friction coefficient and wear rate under oil-lubricated conditions. ► Viscosity, contact angle and adhesional work affect tribological performance. ► Stribeck curve clarified the lubrication regime. ► XPS presents the probable chemical reaction on the worn surface. ► Tribofilm influences tribological behavior and transition between lubrication regimes.