FUNDAMENTAL-ASPECTS OF THE ELECTRONIC-STRUCTURE, MATERIALS PROPERTIES AND LUBRICATION PERFORMANCE OF SPUTTERED MOS2 FILMS

In this paper experimental results concerning the electronic and crystal structures, film adhesion and bulk friction of sputter-deposited MoS//2 films are reviewed and discussed. A model using a molecular orbital description of the electronic energy levels of MoS//2 is presented that can be used to interpret these data. This model also provides a rationale for the differences in lubrication effectiveness between NbSe//2 and MoS//2, and it provides predictive capabilities for improving the performance of MoS//2 films.