Crucially, it is apparent that maintaining an oxidation-resistant coating is essential for the effective and long-lasting GnP-tribofilm formation, as the nickel-topped ML (Ni) coating displays an increased reduction in friction and longer-lasting performance; the absence of an oxygen scavenger layer is detrimental to the tribofilm (as seen in ML (Cu) ). In addition, it appears that when protected with an oxygen scavenger, the GnP-tribofilm shows a degradation pathway that is independent of the load applied. This is shown by the same rate of changes in the Raman features of the tribofilms on ML (Ni) surfaces at both 5N and 25N loads. This suggests that the strain imposed on the GnP tribofilm is well below its physical and mechanical limits, and could potentially withstand higher loads with minimal detriment, given its supporting structure can withstand such contact pressures. analogue.