Abstract

MXene coatings have shown excellent wear-resistance and durability under solid lubrication due to tribo-chemically induced tribo-films. While their structure and morphology are partially explored, no knowledge about the tribo-layers’ mechanical properties is available. Therefore, our study combines systematic mechanical (nano-indentation) and tribological testing (ball-on-disk tribometry) with advanced materials characterization to shed light on the interplay between chemistry, structure and mechanical properties of the tribolayer formed under different loads and the resulting tribological performance. For a normal load of 100 mN, the tribolayer induced a 56% friction reduction while maintaining a remarkable mechanical integrity, with an average friction coefficient of about 0.22 and a wear rate of about 4.5 × 10-5 mm3/N·m. When increasing the load to 400 mN, the formed tribolayer became densified and structurally reorganized, accompanied with tribo-oxidation, resulting in notable increase of hardness and Young's modulus (over 80%) compared with the as-deposited coating. The observed structural changes affected friction and wear, as the enhanced mechanical properties improved the tribolayer's ability to withstand higher mechanical stresses, thus improving friction and wear under more severe conditions. Our findings lay the fundamental base for a deeper understanding of the relationship between microstructure, chemistry, and mechanical properties of the formed tribolayers and their tribological response thus positioning Ti3C2Tx coatings as promising solutions for demanding tribological applications requiring wear resistance and durability. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.