The effect of femtosecond laser treatment on the tribological properties of titanium nitride

Abstract The influence of femtosecond laser (fs-laser) processing on the structural-phase state of titanium nitride (TiN) coatings have been studied. It has been revealed using scanning electron microscopy and scanning probe microscopy that laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS, LSFL) form on TiN coating surfaces. Depending on the laser scanning direction, two types of surface structures - parallel and cross-like ones have been obtained. Tribological tests showed that cross-like structures demonstrates better wear resistance properties in a dry friction, while parallel ones in a friction with lubricants.