Metal nitrides of titanium and aluminum (TiAl) N are coatings used since many years for their outstanding properties of hardness and resistance to oxidation [1]. To further improve the mechanical performances, we are currently exploring the use of cyclic control signal reactive sputtering (RGPP), a process patented in 2006 [[4].

The technological challenge is to develop functional coatings with optimal mechanical performances, including very high hardness (HIT>40 GPa). The study consists in a numerical modelling of indentation of multi-layer TiAl/TiAlN titanium and aluminium-based coatings. The scientific challenge is to understand the phenomena causing the superlattice effect, i.e. the increase in hardness measured at low stacking periods (4 and 10 nm).

This work of numerical modelling, model-experience interaction and sensitivity analysis will be carried out by the post-doctoral fellow for 12 months. At the end of the project, the optimization of the model will make
it possible to digitally find a nanolaminate solution that maximizes hardness. This nanolaminate product will be developed, its hardness validated experimentally by nanoindentation and its microstructure characterized by X-ray diffraction (DRX). 

Required profile:
PhD in the field of mechanic of material and structure, with a strong background in numerical simulation and mechanical testing.