Comparison of Structure and Properties of the PVD, Hybrid (Galvanic + PVD), and Galvanic Coatings Deposited onto the Brass Substrate

Abstract

The properties of thin hard coatings and consequently their functionality are influenced by microstructural characteristics such as mechanical properties. A variety of interlayers has been used in hybrid coatings for various purposes. The paper presents investigation results of the structure, erosion and corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties of the galvanic Ni/Cr, hybrid Ni/Cr + Zr/ZrN (galvanic + PVD) and monolithic nitride coatings deposited by PVD technique (dc magnetron sputtering) onto brass (CuZn40Pb2) substrates. The ceramic PVD coatings or layers are the Cr-, Ti-, TiAl-, Zr-nitrides. The investigation covered the metallographic analysis on the scanning electron microscope, mechanical properties and erosion test. The corrosion tests were made in a 1 M NaOH solution. It was found out that PVD coatings display high corrosion resistance.