1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:

The study utilized femtosecond laser irradiation to selectively structure the metallic niobium (Nb) phase of Al2O3-ZrO2-Nb composites, leveraging the different light absorption behaviors of ceramic and metal. The tribological performance was evaluated using reciprocating sliding tests in a ball-on-disc configuration with Ringer’s solution as lubricant.

2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:

Metal-reinforced ceramic composites with a composition of 78.3 vol.% Al2O3, 1.7 vol.% ZrO2, and 20 vol.% Nb were used as substrate material. The surfaces were polished and ultrasonically cleaned before laser structuring.

3：3 vol.% Al2O3, 7 vol.% ZrO2, and 20 vol.% Nb were used as substrate material. The surfaces were polished and ultrasonically cleaned before laser structuring. List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:

3. List of Experimental Equipment and Materials: A diode pumped Yb:KYW thin disc fs-laser system (JenLasD2.fs, Jenoptik, Germany) was used for laser structuring. Characterization techniques included optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and contact angle measurements.

4：fs, Jenoptik, Germany) was used for laser structuring. Characterization techniques included optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and contact angle measurements. Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:

4. Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow: The laser beam was scanned across the sample surface with specific parameters to create LIPSS. The tribological tests were performed at room temperature for 1,000 sliding cycles in different directions relative to the orientation of the Nb flakes and LIPSS.

5：Data Analysis Methods:

The surface topography and chemical composition were analyzed before and after laser processing. The coefficient of friction was measured, and wear tracks were characterized using OM and SEM.