Microstructure and tribological properties of CrCN coating prepared by arc ion plating

CrN and CrCN coating were prepared on single crystal Si and 316L stainless steel by arc ion plating. The surface morphology, microstructures, phase compositions and performance of the CrCN coating were characterized by SEM, EDS TEM, XRD, XPS, EDS, nanoindentation, scratch test and wear tester. The surface morphologies after wear were observed and the wear mechanism was discussed. The results show that CrCN coating has obvious flaws and better bond with the matrix than CrN coating. The composition of CrCN coating mainly contains Cr, C and N. sp~2, sp~3 and Cr-C bonds dominate in the carbon bonding. Because of the reinforced Cr_7C_3 particulate and the formation of hybrid carbon, the hardness, tribological properties and wear resistant of CrCN coating can be enhanced