Structure and physical properties of nanocomposite Coatings

Nanocomposite structures composed of crystalline and/or amorphous phases are of rapidly growing interest. With the real-time control of the deposition parameters, functionally graded thin films can be produced. These coatings have enhanced mechanical, magnetic and interesting electric properties compared to conventional single-phase coatings. Tailored physical properties can be produced and reproduced only if detailed knowledge of the structure and the atomic processes, taking place during film formation, is available. Nanoscale composite films are often produced by physical deposition methods. In these films the nanosize of the crystalline grains is ensured by the formation of a continuous covering layer of the (amorphous) matrix during growth, blocking the growth of the crystallites. Model systems of metal/amorphous carbon or carbon-nitride films as well as metal/metal-oxide nanocomposites will be shown as examples.The physical and technical background of hard and multifunctional nanocomposite materials...