Tribological behavior of TiN and CrN coatings sliding against an epoxy molding compound

TiN and CrN coatings were deposited by unbalanced magnetron sputtering, and then rubbed against an epoxy molding compound (EMC). In sliding against an EMC, TiN exhibited an extremely high wear rate and a low friction coefficient, while the CrN-coated sample showed the opposite behavior. To understand this difference, Raman spectroscopy and thermal testing were used to study both coatings. Combining the results of oxidation, Raman spectroscopy and tribological testing, it can be concluded that the oxidation and pore generation occurring in the TiN coating during sliding deteriorated the mechanical properties of the coating and therefore its wear resistance. The excellent wear performance of the CrN coating against EMC was related to its good oxidation resistance, and adhesion to the substrate at high temperature.