Microstructural evolution, hardness and wear properties of WS₂ films deposited by RF magnetron sputtering at varying times

Abstract In the present work, WS₂ thin films were deposited on hot-working steel substrates by RF magnetron sputtering at different deposition times (600, 900, 1200, 1500, and 1800 s). The films were systematically characterized using cross-sectional analysis for thickness measurement, The FESEM for surface and microstructural evaluation, stylus profilometry for surface roughness analysis, Raman spectroscopy for structural and vibrational characterization, and nanoindentation for mechanical properties (hardness and elastic modulus). In addition, the corrosion performance of the coatings was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization measurements to evaluate the protective efficiency of WS₂ films as a function of thickness. The results provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure–property–performance relationships in sputtered WS₂ coatings and highlight their potential for combined solid lubrication and corrosion protection applications.