Architecture of Multilayer Cr/CrN Coatings for Wear Protection in Seawater: Cr/CrN Ratio and Total Thickness

Abstract

Cr/CrN multilayer coatings with various Cr/CrN thickness ratios and total thicknesses were deposited on 316L stainless steel by multi-arc ion plating. The coatings were systematically characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and nanoindentation. Tribological behaviors were investigated using a ball-on-disk tribometer in artificial seawater. The results showed that the multilayer coating phases changed from Cr2N + CrN to Cr + Cr2N + CrN phases with an increase in Cr/CrN thickness ratio. The adhesion showed a slight difference for the coatings with different thickness ratios but significantly increased with total thickness. The hardness was also slightly improved by thickening the coatings. The friction coefficient and wear rate were lowest at a thickness ratio of about 0.3. However, there was no large difference in the friction coefficient between coatings with different thicknesses. The wear rate was lower for the thicker coatings under various loads. The load-bearing capacity was also improved by thickening the coatings.