Various approaches to creating multicomponent nanocomposite coatings of high and superhigh hardness (from $\simeq$ 30 to 100 — 120 GPa) are reviewed with particular emphasis placed on mechanisms underlying the increase in hardness in thin ≤ 10 μm) coatings. The deposition technologies considered include magnetron sputtering, ion beam-assisted and vacuum arc depositions. A classification of hard and superhard coatings with high thermal stability is given. Possible applications of such nanostructured coatings are discussed and prospects for the field are outlined.

PACS: 61.46.−w, 62.20.Qp, 62.25.−g (all) DOI: 10.3367/UFNe.0179.200901b.0035 URL: https://ufn.ru/en/articles/2009/1/b/ 000266708800002 2-s2.0-67849118716 2009PhyU...52...29P Citation: Pogrebnjak A D, Shpak A P, Azarenkov N A, Beresnev V M "Structures and properties of hard and superhard nanocomposite coatings" Phys. Usp. 52 29–54 (2009) BibTexBibNote ® (generic)BibNote ® (RIS)MedlineRefWorks Оригинал: Погребняк А Д, Шпак А П, Азаренков Н А, Береснев В М «Структура и свойства твёрдых и сверхтвёрдых нанокомпозитных покрытий» УФН 179 35–64 (2009); DOI: 10.3367/UFNr.0179.200901b.0035