Numerical modeling of functional graded TiB coating in Nanoindentation on Determination of Mechanical Properties

Abstract

Functional graded thin films improve the mechanical properties of coating films and substrate materials. The mechanical properties of materials like functional graded thin films are commonly determined by using nano-or ultra-microhardness indentation tests. Understanding the relationship of the measured data and the mechanical properties of the indented materials is important in order to obtain reliable mechanical properties of the thin films. In this study, finite element model is developed to simulate the nanoindentation test of WC (Tungsten Carbide) substrate coated TiB (Titanium Boron). The models are based on a contact problem between an axisymmetric half space of a specimen and spherical indentation. The film layer through the thickness is modeled for both the functional graded TiB coating which material properties vary linearly and the thin coating layer including 85% Ti (Titanium) and 15% TiB and the coatings were compared with each other. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of TEMA - Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation.