Duration: 1999-2002

Raman microspectroscopic analysis of all the generations of PVD hard coatings: binary TiN, multicomponent TiAlN and superlattice TiAlN/VN and CrN/NbN coatings is in progress in this collaborative project with Renishaw. The main aims are to develop a Raman based method of monitoring the quality of coatings produced by the Surface Engineering Group and to monitor stress and wear induced changes in these hard coatings. The longer term objective is to investigate industrial wear on real coated cutting tool samples.

Raman Spectra are strongly dependent on the local crystal structure of the sample under examination. Oxide products formed as a cutting tool is used are generated at characteristic temperatures and Raman spectra can be used to determine the maximum temperature that the cutting edge has reached.

Project staff: Professor P Eh Hovsepian, C Constable