Abstract

High-entropy nitride (HEN) coatings are increasingly sought after for mechanical components operating under extreme service conditions, a demand driven by their exceptional microstructural stability and mechanical robustness. However, the influence of high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) pulse parameters-specifically pulse length-on the properties of (CrAlVTiNb)N coatings remains insufficiently understood. This study addresses this knowledge gap by systematically investigating the microstructural, mechanical, and tribological evolution of (CrAlVTiNb)N coatings. Our findings reveal that shorter pulses promote a transition from porous columnar morphologies to dense, featureless structures. Optimized ion bombardment facilitates a peak hardness of 30.34 GPa and exceptional interfacial adhesion of 72 N. Tribological assessments identify an optimal parameter configuration at 100 Hz and 300 mu s, attaining a minimum wear rate of 2.3 & times; 10-7 mm3/N & sdot;m.

Keywords Plus: DEPOSITION

Published in APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE，Volume746；10.1016/j.apsusc.2026.167666，NOV 2026