Evaluation of the tribological behavior of TiSiCN (a- SiCN/nc- TiSiCN) nanocomposite coatings

This research shows a detailed analysis of the tribological properties of a TiSiCN nanocomposite consisting of an amorphous matrix (a-SiCN) and nanocrystals (nc-TiSiCN). By means TEM it was possible to evidence the presence of two distinct phases, attributed to the nc- TiSiCN nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous SiCN matrix. Therefore, the scientific factors as the increasing of power applied to the Si3N4 target and the nc-TiSiCN nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous SiCN matrix that influencing the physical properties which generate the increase of the mechanical properties of this type of coating. In this sense, the evaluation of the distribution of elements presented by TEM-EDX. XRD results determined that by increasing the power applied to the Si3N4 target, a relaxation of the residual stresses within the crystalline structure was generated, which influenced in a much more homogeneous and dense columnar growth, decreasing the roughness as determined by AFM. Mechanical study determined the better hardness of 32 Gpa and the better elastic modulus of 301 Gpa for the 500 W deposited coating. Tribological response concluded that the coating deposited with 500 W presented the best response obtaining a friction coefficient close to 0.3. All the results obtained determined that the TiSiCN nanocomposite coating deposited with a power of 500 W will be the best option to be implemented as a protective coating on cutting tools. •(a- SiCN/nc- TiSiCN) Nanocomposite Coatings.•Nc-TiSiCN nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous SiCN matrix.•A hardness of 32 Gpa and elastic modulus of 301 Gpa was obtained.•Reduction of the wear effect as function of applied power.