Toward hard yet tough VC coating via modulating compressive stress and nanostructure to enhance its protective performance in seawater

Abstract

Abstract VC nanocomposite coatings with high carbon content were deposited by multi-arc ion plating at varied substrate bias voltages ranging from −\u202f50 to −\u202f250 V. There is a comprehensive study as to coating preparation and corresponding microstructure, phase contents and their relationship with mechanical properties. The results show that carbon bonding is significantly affected by bias voltage. For the coatings deposited at high bias voltage, the appropriate combination of inducing compressive stress and manipulating the nanostructure accounts for the effect of hardening and toughening. The tribological and corrosive responses of nanocomposite VC coatings are implemented in the condition of seawater. The hard yet tough nanocomposite structure makes the coatings have favorable wear resistance. Moreover, the smooth surface and dense structure obtained at high bias voltage jointly improve capacity of anti-corrosion resistance. The results are beneficial to the potential application of VC nanocomposite coating in seawater.