Assessment of the tribological potential of self-lubricating alumina composites impregnated with Ti3C2Tx-MXene and MoS2

Although MXene and MoS 2 individually possess outstanding anti-friction and wear-resistant properties in numerous applications, the combination of both in the recent past has created a new frontier in cutting-edge applications. The current work insights into the impregnation of porous alumina ceramics in the MXene (1 wt %), MoS 2 (1 wt %), and hybrid (0.5 wt % MXene +0.5 wt % MoS 2 ) solution to fabricate self-lubricating alumina composites via vacuum impregnation method and afterward exploring the mechanical as well as tribological properties of the synthesized composites. A significant strengthening of the matrix for impregnated composites was observed compared to unimpregnated porous ceramics. The impregnated composites were slid against the zirconia ball to assess the friction behavior. The results revealed that the ceramics impregnated with MXene only can reduce COF by ∼43 % of that unimpregnated ceramics; however, in conjunction with MoS 2, the reduction can be lowered to ∼70 % attributed to synergistic effect of MXene and MoS 2 to form the tribo-layer over interacting surfaces. The study concludes that hybrid (MXene/MoS 2 ) impregnation of porous ceramics exhibits excellent self-lubricating properties over other impregnations, making them suitable candidates for advanced tribological applications. This novel combination leverages the unique properties of MXene and MoS 2 to enhance the longevity and performance of porous ceramics in demanding operational environments.