Indentation and scratch behavior of nano-SiO2/polycarbonate composite coating at the micro/nano-scale

The mechanical and tribological performances of polycarbonate film and nano-SiO2/polycarbonate composite coating are studied with micro/nano-scale indentation and scratch tests using Hysitron TriboIndenter. The experimental results show that the hardness and stiffness are increased apparently after the addition of nano-SiO2. The scratch tests indicate that the nano-SiO2/polycarbonate coating exhibits smaller scratch depth and lower frictional coefficient. Combined with the examination of infrared spectrum, the mechanisms of the improvements in mechanical and tribological properties of the coatings are analyzed.