a composition and method for providing a wear - resistant and fuel - saving coating on metals , particularly metal surfaces within internal combustion engines . a source of ammonium ions , an alkali metal in an aqueous medium , and the coating metal to be applied to the surface are combined to produce an electrolyte solution comprising a complex ion mixture . the electrolyte solution can be used to deposit the coating metal on conductive substrates . the coating metal may comprise phosphorus , sulfur , carbon , bismuth , boron , silicon , and combinations thereof . the electrolyte solution can be dehydrated in a hydrocarbon medium , thus providing novel materials for use as lubricating oil additives and as fuel additives . these new surfaces may significantly reduce coefficient of friction , smooth the flame front , reduce corrosion , enhance fuel economy , and reduce hydrocarbon emissions when used in internal combustion engines .