Ion-plating of TiN on superplastically deformed 3Y-TZP ceramic and 3Y-TZP/Al2O3 composite

Superplastic deformation of zirconia-based ceramics frequently produces cavities at grain boundaries, which deteriorates some of their mechanical properties. In the present study, ion plating of TiN on superplastically deformed 3 mol.% yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (3Y-TZP) and 3Y-TZP/Al2O3 composite (3Y-20A) specimens was performed to study whether the TiN coating is effective in recovering the deteriorated mechanical properties. The coated TiN layers consisted of a fine and uniform structure and possessed high hardness and fracture toughness. The adhesion of the TiN layer to the deformed specimens was in very good condition. The fracture toughness, as well as the deteriorated hardness, of the deformed specimens was improved by the TiN coating.