Influence of carbon content on the mechanical properties of TiCN–Cu nanocomposite coatings prepared by multi-arc ion plating

Abstract In order to improve the mechanical properties of TiN–Cu coatings, such as their hardness, adhesion and wear resistance, C atoms are proposed to be introduced into TiN–Cu coatings. In the current work, TiCN–Cu coatings with various carbon content were deposited on the high-speed steel by reactive multi-arc ion plating. The coatings' morphology, structure and mechanical properties were analyzed. The results show that with increase in C content, the coating's crystallinity degrades. The optimal hardness and adhesion strength of 39 GPa and 58 N can be achieved. A relatively low friction coefficient of about 0.11 is realized when C content is 34.14 at.%. Compared with TiN–Cu coatings without carbon doping, the mechanical properties of TiCN–Cu coatings are improved significantly.