Novel Double-Layer Titanium Boride Coatings : Kinetics of Boron Diffusion and Coating Morphologies

As we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration and medical research to enhance quality of life, development of key materials to surmount the inherent challenges is of fundamental importance. Titanium is an excellent candidate in this regard because of its specific stiffness, high strength to weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance. However, improved wear resistance has been imperative in almost all titanium-based applications. Titanium boride is a useful material with very high hardness that increases the wear resistance of titanium while also allowing it to maintain its superior inherent properties. Development of a titanium boride coating on titanium could potentially result in an optimum material that combines the best of ceramic and metallic properties. A double - layer boride (TiB2 + TiB) coating would further enhance these advantages. This work was undertaken with the objective of developing such a superior material in an inexpensive manner.