Molybdenum disulfide quantum dots (MoS2 QDs) are a promising lubricant additive for enhanced engine efficiency. In this study, MoS2 QDs were used as lubricating oil additives for ball-on-disc contact and had adequate dispersity in paroline oil, due to their super small particle size (~3 nm). Tribological results indicate that the friction coefficient of paroline oil with 0.3 wt.% MoS2 QDs reached 0.061, much lower than that of pure paroline oil (0.169), which is due to the formation of a stable tribo-film formed by the MoS2, MoO3, FeS, and FeSO4 composite within the wear track. Synergistic lubrication effects of the tribo-film and ball-bearing effect cooperatively resulted in the lowest friction and wear.
