Use of MoS2 Applied by Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) on Space Mechanisms

摘要

The laboratory test results of sputter coatings of MoS2 are described. The lubricating film, produced using a physical vapor deposition technique was used in the Arabsat, SPOT and TDF satellites. The test program includes the study of the influence of many parameters, including speed, vacuum, temperature, load, and air humidity in the case of ground tests. The tests show that MoS2 is an excellent lubricant for space mechanisms. The only remaining problem is its high sensitivity to moisture when performing ground tests.