Effects of oxide layer formed on TiN coated silicon wafer on the friction characteristics

In this study, the effects of oxide layer formed on the wear tracks of TiN coated silicon wafer on friction characteristics were investigated. Silicon wafer was used for the substrate of coated disk specimens, which were prepared by depositing TiN coating with $1\;{\mu}m$ in coating thickness. AISI 52100 steel balls were used for the counterpart. The tests were performed both in air for forming oxide layer on the wear track and in nitrogen to avoid oxidation. This paper reports characterization of the oxide layer effects on friction characteristics using X-ray diffraction (XRD). scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and friction force microscope (FFM).