Oxidation behaviour of Ti–Al–C films composed mainly of a Ti2AlC phase

This paper addresses the oxidation behaviour of Ti–Al–C films composed mainly of a Ti2AlC phase. The films exhibited rather low oxidation rates at 600 and 700 °C, with an oxygen-rich zone or a thin oxide layer appearing on the film surfaces. Much faster oxidation rates were observed at 800 and 900 °C. The Ti2AlC phase was quickly consumed by oxidation. From the film surface to the inner zone, TiO2-rich layer, Al2O3-rich layer, and TiO2 + Al2O3 mixed layer was observed, respectively. The oxidation mechanism of the Ti–Al–C film is discussed based on the experimental results.

► Ti–Al–C films composed mainly of Ti2AlC MAX phase were synthesised.
► The films exhibited low oxidation rates at 600 and 700 °C.
► At 800 and 900 °C, the Ti2AlC phase was quickly consumed by oxidation.
► TiO2, Al2O3, and TiO2 + Al2O3 mixed layer formed on the films at 800 and 900 °C.