Characterisation of novel precursor-derived ceramic coatings with glass filler particles on steel substrates

Ceramic coatings based on polysilazanes guarantee optimum surface adhesion on metals. For some applications they are either too thin or too porous. These shortcomings are corrected with filler particles. Our research focuses on a coating that protects steel from corrosion and abrasive wear at high temperatures. A non-porous, scratch resistant 100 μm thick coating was synthesised. The properties of polysilazane-derived coatings possessing a borosilicate–bariumsilicate glass filler particle mixture are presented in this article. These coatings were analysed using helium-ion microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, abrasion resistance and thermal diffusivity tests. The coatings thickness, adhesion and abrasion resistance make them ideal candidates for corrosion and abrasion protection at elevated temperatures, where a chemically and mechanically stable coating is required.