Comparison of the mechanical properties of nitrogen ion implantation and micro-pulsed plasma nitriding techniques of Cr–Ni alloy

Cr–Ni alloys are frequently used in dentistry for economical reasons. While they gain popularity, an increase in systemic and local concerns of these dental metals is observed. With the progressions in surface technology, the surface characteristics of the metals can be changed. In this study, nitrogen ion (N ion) implantation and plasma nitriding techniques were used to change the properties of Cr–Ni alloy (Wirollay). Nitrogen implantation at dose 1×1017 ion/cm2 and micro-pulsed plasma nitriding techniques were applied to Cr–Ni alloy samples. After the process, the friction coefficient was decreased in ion implantation, but this ratio was increased in the plasma nitriding technique with respect to the substrate. The roughness did not change after N ion implantation but it increased after the plasma nitriding procedure. Wear volume of the implanted and plasma nitriding samples were lower than the substrate. Hardness values were increased four times for N ion implantation and eight times for the plasma nitriding technique.