Technical Programmes

Nanoindentation

	Nanoindentation studies on DLC coatings: Hardness and modulus values of DLC coatings are being measured the data is being analysed. By carrying out tests on samples with different process parameters, we are trying to understand the effect of these parameters on the mechanical properties of the coatings. It is also hoped that the experiments will help in understanding the buckling and adhesion in the films.
	Nanoindentation studies on cold-sprayed copper coatings: The study is aimed at measuring the modulus. The elastic moduli values are necessary inputs for the calculation of residual stress by XRD.
	Nanoindentation studies on Al2O3 coatings by MAO: Hardness and elastic modulus of Al2O3 coatings is being studied. H and E profiles as a function of the coating thickness help in understanding the coating process. The data help in fatigue and fracture analysis and in residual stress calculations

Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD)

	EBSD study of phase relations in ZnO: Phase relations in ZnO prepared by spray pyrolysis are being studied by EBSD. The phase fractions and physical location of the second phases (grain boundaries, triple points etc.) are being used to optimise varistor behaviour.
	EBSD study of Zn and Cu coatings: The study is being carried out to obtain an understanding of the microstructure, grain shape, size etc. of Zn and Cu coatings generated by cold spray. These parameters will be used to enhance the corrosion resistance in Zn coatings and electrical conductivity in Cu coatings.
	EBSD study on Ag coatings: This study aims at understanding the microstructure of the Ag coatings prepared by cold spray.
	EBSD studies on laser-treated Al6061 alloy: The aim is to understand the microstructure and the phase changes occurring in the alloy after laser treatment of the surface.

Other Studies

	Residual stress analysis using XRD: The aim is to understand the difference in the properties of coatings prepared using different techniques such as detonation spray, cold spray, plasma etc. Coatings have been prepared with different thicknesses, processing conditions and heat treatments
	Electropolishing studies on coatings: A relatively strain-free surface is necessary for EBSD measurements and electropolishing is being used for the same. The technique is also useful for polishing ductile or easily corrodible materials.
	Ion beam milling study of ZnO: To obtain a pullout-free surface on ZnO for EBSD studies. The pullouts occur when polishing ZnO using diamond paste and so, the aim is to polish the sample without the use of diamond paste and obtain a smooth surface suitable for EBSD measurements.
	Study of WC-Co coatings: WC-Co coatings at various oxy-fuel ratios using DSC have been deposited and characterisation of the materials has been carried out along with a study of mechanical properties. The aims are to study the decomposition mechanism by varying oxy-fuel ratio and to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the microstructural features such as cuboids size, phase concentration and mechanical properties such as hardness and fracture toughness. Phase analysis in the samples is being carried out by x-ray diffraction and EBSD is being used to study the grain orientations.
	Characterization of samples from other centres: Samples from other Centres of ARCI and also samples from external users are characterised using facilities at the Centre.