Effect of the nanostructuring of a Cu substrate on the fracture of heat-resistant Si-Al-N coatings during uniaxial tension

The effect of the nanostructuring of the surface layers in a Cu substrate on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture mechanisms of heat-resistant Si-Al-N coatings during uniaxial tension is studied. The nanostructuring of a substrate is performed by the following two methods: bombardment by Zr⁺ ion beams and ultrasonic impact treatment. Depending on the state of the substrate, different spallation mechanisms are found to operate in the Si-Al-N coatings during mechanical loading. The maximum shear strength of the coating/substrate interface is shown to be achieved due to ion bombardment of the substrate.