Excellent corrosion and wear resistance of amorphous and crystalline ZrCoAl alloys

This work investigates the nanotribological and corrosion performances of a Zr56Co28Al16 alloy in its crystalline and amorphous configuration. The corrosion and tribological performances of the investigated alloy are excellent regardless of the structure. In both amorphous and crystalline cases, the alloy surface is covered by a Zr-rich mixed oxide layer, extending the adhesive friction domain and suppressing abrasive wear. Moreover, the native mixed oxide offers durable protection against corrosion in aqueous NaCl or HCl solutions. •The corrosion and tribological performances of Zr56Co28Al16 alloys are excellent.•A Zr-rich mixed oxide layer covers amorphous and crystalline alloy surfaces.•The oxide layer extends the adhesive friction domain and suppresses abrasive wear.•The native mixed oxide offers durable protection against corrosion.