Abstract
Superhard nanocomposite coatings of different composition in the quasi-binary system TiN-TiB2 were deposited onto stainless steel sheets by means of unbalanced DC magnetron cosputtering using segmented TiN/TiB2 targets. The chemistry and microstructure of a TiB0.6N0.7 coating was investigated using X-ray and electron diffraction, photoelectron spectroscopy, energy-filtering transmission electron microscopy, and electron energy-loss spectrometry. High resolution elemental mapping of the elements Ti, B, N, and O with energy-filtering TEM reveals a homogeneous distribution on the nanometer scale. X-Ray and electron diffraction exhibit only TiN crystallites of nanometer size, but no information on the boron-rich phase. The near-edge fine structures of the BK and NK ionization edges in the EELS spectra of the Ti-B-N coatings were used to derive information on the phases by comparing the edges with those of reference compounds. It was found that the TiN nanocrystals occur together with TiO x particles; the grains are embedded in a strongly disordered or quasi-amorphous matrix consisting mainly of TiB2 particles and, near the steel substrate, also boron oxide (B203).
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
