Characterization of nanostructured coatings based on oxides for tribological applications

The aim of this project was to develop a wear-resistant coating for tribological applications in various environments. Zirconia nanocrystallites were encapsulated into an amorphous Cu matrix by the simultaneous deposition of Zr and Cu with pulsed reactive magnetron sputtering. The incorporation of ZrO2 in a Cu matrix leads to a nanocomposite coating with improved wear resistance, temperature stability and chemical inertness. The deposition parameters (cathodes power, gas flow) were correlated to the mechanical properties of the coating. The nanoparticles were deposited onto metal-grids and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Sliding tests were performed under N2 and with Isopar M as lubricant. The coatings were tested against steel 100Cr6 and ceramic Al2O3 counterparts. The wear mechanism was studied in each situation.