Mechanical properties and tribological behavior at micro and macro-scale of WC/WCN/W hierarchical multilayer coatings

• Published in: Tribology international Vol. 101; pp. 194 - 203
• Main Authors: Rivera-Tello, César D., Broitman, E., Flores-Ruiz, F.J., Jiménez, O., Flores, M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2016
• Subjects: Hierarchical multilayers; Magnetron sputtering; Tribological behavior; Wear; Magnetron sputtering; Tribological behavior; Wear; Hierarchical multilayers
• ISSN: 0301-679X; 1879-2464; 1879-2464
• DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2016.04.017

It is known that a hierarchical configuration helps to improve adhesion to the substrate and reduce the effects that generate a sharp change in a conventional multilayer coating, like interface stresses. We present a study of the mechanical properties and tribological behavior at the micro and macro scale of WC/WCN/W multilayer coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering, combining soft and hard layers with a hierarchical architecture. Variations in the number of layers and thicknesses, as well as the distribution within the coating are determinant to obtain the adequate mechanical properties in order to reduce the wear rate. It was found that the coating with high hierarchical configuration presented lower wear rates, in comparison to single layer and low hierarchical configuration coatings. •We present tribological behaviors at different scales of hierarchical layered coatings•The coating with high hierarchical configuration presents lower wear rates.•The use of soft hard layers in a hierarchical way improves the tribological behavior•Coatings with carbon compounds generate tribofilms, reducing the friction coefficient.