Analysis of the mechanical properties of diamond-like carbon coatings on zirconia crystals for tribotechnical purposes

The article discusses the physical and mechanical properties of nanostructured zirconia crystals for tribotechnical purposes with a diamond-like carbon coating applied on the friction surface. The properties of the materials were determined using kinetic indentation. Special attention was given to the plasticity properties of the material surface layers. The plasticity of a crystal is characterized by the work of permanent deformation during the indentation process. The assumption that the product of the material hardness by the permanent deformation coefficient characterizes wear resistance of the material was substantiated. A comparison of the mechanical properties of crystals for the manufacture of jewel bearings was performed. It was concluded that DLC-coated PSZ crystals have better antifriction properties and show promise for the manufacture of endstone and ring jewel bearings.