Nanostructured hard coatings: the key to safe operation of equipment in extreme conditions

Abstract

Two main classes of hard coatings based on tungsten and tungsten carbides prepared by chemical gas-phase sedimentation are considered in this work. The coatings possess high hardness (11–40 GPa) and thickness (12–100 µm). Results on abrasive and corrosion resistance in solutions of hydrogen sulfide, inorganic acids, and other aggressive environment are presented. All these coatings are promising for use in extremely severe conditions of abrasive, corrosion, and erosive wear owing to a unique combination of chemical stability, hardness, viscosity, and crackand impact-resistance.