The Microstructure, Hardness, Phase Transformation and Mechanical Properties of a NiTi Coating Applied to Graphite Substrate via a Plasma Spraying Process.

In this study, Ni₅₀Ti₅₀ powder was coated on the surface of graphite substrate (C) via a plasma spraying process using a radio frequency inductively coupled plasma reactor. The coating was carried out using 12- and 9-kW power under Ar atmosphere. The cross-section of coating layers and the surface were examined with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrum (EDX), and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) analyses and microhardness test. The thickness and quality of the coating increased with the input power. Many pores were detected in the cross-sectional surface areas. Higher input power caused a better coating layer of NiTi alloy. The hardness of the coating layer decreases with higher input power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]