Cathodic arc deposition of (Al,Cr)2O3: Macroparticles and cathode surface modifications

► Industrial scale cathodic arc deposition of corundum type (AlxCr1 − x)2O3 coatings. ► Formation of recast reaction layer on eroded Al-Cr cathodes. ► Analysis of intermetallic Al-Cr phases present in the reaction layer. ► Incorporation of different types of macroparticles into the growing coating. ► Discussion regarding correlation between cathode surface erosion and macroparticles.