Assessment of the Mechanical Performance of AlCrSiN Coating Implanted with Zr and Ta Ions

This study explores the impact of Zr and Ta ion implantation on the mechanical performance of an AlCrSiN quaternary coating deposited on a WC-Co cermet substrate. Nanoindentation tests revealed a decrease in hardness and elastic modulus after ion implantation, compared to unimplanted coatings. Moreover, microscratch and contact damage tests demonstrated improved adhesion and reduced surface damage for ion-implanted samples, with Ta implantation exhibiting the best performance. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sectional analysis confirmed less severe damage in ion-implanted samples compared to unimplanted ones. These findings suggest that Zr/Ta ion implantation enhances the structural integrity and adhesion of AlCrSiN coatings under loading conditions commonly encountered in practical applications, despite a moderate reduction in intrinsic hardness and elastic modulus.