Design/methodology/approach A series of graphene oxide (GO) nano hybrid composites decorated with tungsten disulfide (WS2) were prepared in-suit by hydrothermal strategy. Findings The results showed that compared to the virgin oil, friction coefficient and diameter of wear scare of lubricant oil containing W/G = 1:1 hybrid composite was reduced by 42.7% and 31.6%, respectively. At the microscopic, the excellent lubrication performance resulted from the tribo-chemical reaction on the sliding interface, which promotes the formation of tribo-film with a thickness of 8 nm. The carbonization compound, WO3 and Fe2O3 in the tribo-film results from the tribo-chemical reactions at the sliding interface, which can improve the stability and strength of tribo-film. Thereby the metal surface was further protected from friction and wear. Originality/value A series of WS2@GO composites were prepared in-suit by a hydrothermal strategy, and the tribo-film was analyzed by the transmission electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2024-0397