Structural and mechanical analysis for the optimization of PVD oxide coatings for protection against metal dusting

► Cr-oxide thin films were investigated as protective coatings against metal dusting. ► Amorphous Cr2O3 formed and resulted in low values of hardness and elastic modulus. ► Bias voltage produced the most remarkable and beneficial effect for the application. ► Non-biased, graded and non-graded, films developed tensile residual stresses.