The tribological properties of two-phase hard and soft composite wear-resistant coatings on titanium alloys

There are still problems associated with the use of conventional modified coatings on titanium alloys despite their attempts to improve wear resistance. These problems include incompatibility of mechanical properties, a poor interface bond, and an abundance of debris. The development of wear-resistant coatings with high reliability and long life is a vital component of expanding the use of titanium alloy in medical implants. The purpose of this study was to produce a composite coating with antifriction and wear-resistant properties by combining the high hardness TiN layer with the soft phase lubricated Cu layer produced by ion implantation and electroless plating. The implantation of Cu ions provided the nucleation sites for electroless copper plating and improving interfacial bonding. There was a reduction in adhesive wear due to the composite coating. By comparing the tribological test results of the composite coating and substrate, the volume loss of coatings decreased by 95 % for the same sliding length, the wear rate decreased from 2.55 × 10−13 m3/N·m to 1.28 × 10−14 m3/N·m, the friction coefficient reduced by 10 % and smoother. As a result of the synergistic effects between the soft and hard phases in the composite coating, titanium alloy exhibited an enhanced wear resistance as the wear process progressed.