Microstructure and properties of laser clad Zr-based alloy coatings on Ti substrates

A Zr-based composite coating was produced by laser-clad of metal powders on a Ti substrate. The microstructure and phases formed in the coatings were studied. The coating consists of a mixture of intermetallic compounds, including a nanocrystalline phase and an amorphous phase. The bonding zone between the substrate and the coating is composed of columnar α-Ti(Zr) solid solution. The coating reveals higher microhardness and lower friction coefficient than the amorphous alloy prepared by suction casting. The predominant wear mechanism is abrasion and peeling.