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Published on: February 10, 2014
Assessment of the Mechanical Performance of AlCrSiN Coating Implanted with Zr and Ta Ions
Jing Liang1, Laia Ortiz-Membrado1,2, Raul Bonet3
1CIEFMA-Department of Materials Science and Engineering, EEBE, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTECH, Avda. Eduard Maristany 16, 08019 Barcelona, Spain.
Abstract:
This study explores the impact of Zr and Ta ion implantation on the mechanical performance of an AlCrSiN quaternary coating deposited on a WC-Co cermet substrate. Nanoindentation tests revealed a decrease in hardness and elastic modulus after ion implantation, compared to unimplanted coatings. Moreover, microscratch and contact damage tests demonstrated improved adhesion and reduced surface damage for ion-implanted samples, with Ta implantation exhibiting the best performance. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sectional analysis confirmed less severe damage in ion-implanted samples compared to unimplanted ones. These findings suggest that Zr/Ta ion implantation enhances the structural integrity and adhesion of AlCrSiN coatings under loading conditions commonly encountered in practical applications, despite a moderate reduction in intrinsic hardness and elastic modulus.
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