TiN-based decorative coatings : colour change by addition of C and O

Abstract

As a result of technological progress in recent years, a new challenge was passed onto decorative hard coatings. While enhancing the appearance and lending attractive coloration to surfaces, the films are supposed to provide scratch resistance, protection against corrosion and durability. For this work, TiN(O) and TiN(C,O) thin films were prepared. Within the TiN(O) system, film colours varied from the glossy golden type for low oxygen contents to dark blue for higher oxygen contents. In order to reach darker colours (black), TiN(C,O) thin films were deposited, and results revealed the possibility to deposit very dark black films. All these results have been analysed and are presented as a function of both the deposition parameters and the particular composition and crystalline phases present in the films.