Microstructure and Properties of Ni3N Composite Films on Ni-Based Nanosheets by Magnetron Sputtering

Single-layered Ni/Ni3N, inter-layered Ni/Ni3N/Ni, and double-layered Ni/Ni3N composite films were produced on an AZ31 magnesium alloy substrate through a magnetron sputtering technique, utilizing precise control over the N2 flow’s modulation. An investigation was conducted to examine the phase composition, structural characteristics, tribological behavior, and corrosion resistance of the developed composite films. The experimental findings reveal that the composite film exhibits a stratified structure, wherein layers of Ni and Ni3N are superimposed with distinct interlaminar boundaries, and the layers have a tight connection between them. Relative to the AZ31 magnesium alloy, the wear volume for the single-layered Ni/Ni3N, inter-layered Ni/Ni3N/Ni, and double-layered Ni/Ni3N composite films was significantly reduced, exhibiting reductions of 68.1%, 80.4%, and 90.1%, respectively. The electrochemical corrosion current density was substantially reduced for the composite film deposition, with respective decrements of 89.5%, 91.4%, and 88.2%. The influence of Ni and Ni3N on the wear and corrosion resistance of composite films varies with different laminated configurations, resulting in distinct levels of wear and corrosion resistance among the various films.