Microstructure and properties of ZrTiC(N) composite films on NiTi alloy

The microstructure, blood biocompatibility and corrosion resistances, and mechanical properties of multinary ZrTiCN and ZrTiC composite films are investigated and compared to those of ZrCN film, ZrC film and NiTi shape memory alloy. The quaternary ZrTiCN and ternary ZrTiC composite films with ZrC and TiC as the predominant phases have a poor crystallinity but a higher adhesion strength with the NiTi substrate than both ZrCN and ZrC films due to the increased deposition temperature and the presence of TiC/TiN phases. Both coatings can improve the surface mechanical properties of biomedical NiTi shape memory alloy while simultaneously offering distinct advantages such as improved blood biocompatibility and corrosion resistances.