Novel double-hollow-sphere MoS2 nanoparticles were synthesized on sericite.
Friction and wear decreased by 22.4 and 63.5% by the novel MoS2/sericite.
Friction induced conversion of MoS2/sericite from lubricant to catalyst.
MoS2/sericite can be used as a photocatalyst after lubricating service life.
A possible approach was proposed for designing a novel green lubricant.