Abstract
Abstract We present recent results on the preparation of stoichiometric C 3 N 4 and its hardness which is far below the theoretically expected value. A comparison with the turbostratic substoichiometric CN 0.2–0.35 films prepared by Sundgren et al. shows the dominant importance of the microstructure. Based on some general rules a concept for the design of thermodynamically stable superhard nanocrystalline composite materials is presented and verified experimentally on three systems: nc-TiN/a-Si 3 N 4 , nc-VN/a-Si 3 N 4 and nc-W 2 N/a-Si 3 N 4 . Hardness of about 5000 kg mm −2 (about 50 GPa) or more and a high elastic modulus of 550 GPa were found in all these systems.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
