Nanocomposite coatings consisting of TiC nanocrystallites embedded in an amorphous SiC matrix (nc-TiC/a-SiC) have been produced using magnetron sputtering from a Ti3SiC2 target onto electrical contact components at a temperature below 300°C. The as deposited nanocomposites were employed as electrical contact materials. Results show that when contacted against Ag, they exhibit somewhat higher contact resistance than Ag against Ag, while preventing welding and potentially minimising wear. This is due to an adequate resistivity coupled with beneficial mechanical properties. The design of the nanoscale materials produced coatings with a relatively high nanoindentation hardness of 20 GPa, but with a ductile deformation behaviour. The ductility is explained by rotation and gliding of nc-TiC grains in the matrix. Therefore, the nanocomposite material can minimise problems with wear and welding while retaining low contact resistance. Consequently, this type of novel coating with appropriate mechanical properties offers a solution to problems in many electrical applications. Moreover, the use of physically vapour deposited coatings is promoted in some previously relatively unexploited areas of electrical contact applications.
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