Structure and properties of thin iron phosphide films on carburised layers

Iron phosphate layers on the carbuised layer structure and properties on the carburised layer have been studied. The layers were generated as a result of a gas phosphorcarburising of Armco iron and 0.2% C steel. Calculations have been done on the Gibbs energy of phosphates Fe3P, Fe2P and FeP synthesis reactions. In terms of the value of the Gibbs energy, Fe3P creation as a result of the synthesis of iron and atomic phosphorus P1 is privileged. Fe3P phosphides and a solid solution of phosphorus layer in iron on the carburised layers generation possibility have been suggested. Thin iron phosphide layers increase hardness and decrease friction wear of carburised layers on iron and steels.