Advancements in the research of nanotwinned ceramic coatings

Abstract Ceramic coatings, especially transition metal nitrides, are widely applied as protective coatings on wear surfaces. The increasing demand for mechanical performance and thermal stability in high-strength applications has driven the development of advanced coatings with complex microstructures and composition designs. Studies have shown that the introduction of nanotwin structures can simultaneously enhance the mechanical and thermal stability of ceramics. Despite the extremely high stacking fault energy, it has been demonstrated that fabricating nanotwins into ceramic coatings is feasible. This paper reviews recent studies on the formation mechanism, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of nanotwinned ceramic coatings. We anticipate that the latest advancements in nanotwinned ceramics research will provide a broader perspective on improving their performance, laying the foundation for developing ceramic coatings with high strength, excellent fracture toughness, and enhanced thermal stability. Additionally, it offers theoretical guidance for twin research in ultra-high stacking fault energy materials.