Characterization of CrN coatings concerning the potential to cover surface imperfections

Imperfection on substrate surfaces commonly causes growth defects in hard coatings prepared by magnetron sputtering, leading to local loss of adhesion, higher friction, voids and corrosion at coating defects. CrN coatings are known for their high hardness and good wear resistance. The structure and the mechanical properties of those coatings can be influenced varying bias voltage and gas flow during film growth.Due to variation of those parameters CrN coatings were deposited with preferred crystallized lattice orientations (111) and (200). The main objective of investigation is the potential to cover imperfections to increase robustness, especially under superimposed corrosive loads. With the intent to generate comparable surface defects, Vickers indentations were applied as artificial imperfections. With X-ray diffraction analysis and cross-sectional SEM micrographs film orientation and texture around those artificial imperfections was studied, aiming to examine coating microstructure and grain growths. In this context the potential of specified crystallized lattice orientation to cover imperfections is of particular interest.