Effect of MoS ₂ Content on the Tribological Properties of MoS ₂ /Basalt Fiber‐Reinforced Epoxy Resin Composites

ABSTRACT This study systematically investigates the tribological performance of molybdenum disulfide (MoS ₂ )/basalt fiber‐reinforced epoxy (BFRP) composites prepared via vacuum infusion. To address the demand for energy‐efficient and durable materials in demanding engineering applications, an orthogonal experiment was designed to assess the effects of MoS ₂ content (0–3 wt.%), applied load (70–85 N), and sliding speed (10–25 mm/s) on the friction and wear behaviors of the composites. Range analysis revealed MoS ₂ content as the most influential parameter (range = 0.11), followed by sliding speed (range = 0.08) and load (range = 0.03). Dry sliding tests against 45# steel counterparts were conducted using an MFT‐3000 tribometer in ball‐on‐reciprocating‐plate configuration. Comprehensive characterization identified an optimal parameter combination: 2 wt.% MoS ₂ loading at 75 N normal load and 15 mm/s sliding speed. Three‐dimensional wear morphology analysis elucidated the lubrication mechanisms, demonstrating that optimally dispersed MoS ₂ significantly enhances the tribological properties of BFRP composites through formation of protective transfer films and reduced interfacial shear.