Wear and Corrosion Performance of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Arc-Coated TiN/CrN Nano-Multilayer Film

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of varying bias parameters (−50 V, −100 V, and −150 V) on the properties of TiN/CrN multilayer films deposited on Ti-6Al-4V alloy using the cathodic arc deposition (CAD) technique. The deposited films were characterized for their composition, structure, morphology, thickness, adhesion, and hardness. Wear and polarization tests were also conducted to determine the optimal bias condition for wear and corrosion resistance. The results showed that the TiN/CrN films possessed a nano-multilayered structure comprising TiN and CrN phases. The hard coating significantly increased the surface hardness of Ti-6Al-4V alloy up to three–five times. The coated specimens demonstrated superior wear resistance compared to the uncoated, with the −150 V specimen exhibiting the least wear rate. Furthermore, the −150 V specimen had the highest polarization impedance value, indicating the best corrosion resistance compared to the other bias conditions. In short, the use of CAD-coated TiN/CrN multilayer film enhanced the surface properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy, with the best wear and corrosion resistance achieved at −150 V bias. These novel findings have significant implications for improving the performance and durability of Ti-6Al-4V alloy components in various industrial applications.