The influence of surface defects on the mechanical and tribological properties of VN-based arc-evaporated coatings

► Defects show a negative impact on the interfacial strength. ► V2N shows lower resistance to interfacial spalling than VN. ► VN shows the lowest resistance to interfacial fatigue. ► V2N shows the lowest critical normal load for interfacial spalling. ► Defects show a strong influence on material pick-up of the counter material.