In situ synthesis of the one-dimensional Ag wires reinforced composites film by a novel active screen plasma process: Nanostructure and excellent adhesion resistance

Abstract A novel active screen (AS) plasma process is developed for the in situ growth of one-dimensional Ag wires and the deposition of reinforced composite coating thereof. Silver wires embedded in the matrix were deposited with Ag nanoparticles, stainless steel nanoparticles and carbon during the AS plasma sputtering process in the ambient of methane and hydrogen. This provided a relatively low-temperature processing route for one-step synthesis of abrasion resistant coating on metallic substrate. Microstructure evolution during sliding with ductile materials proven the ultra-low friction deriving from the molecular ordering of carbon and the high-strength structural holding by the Ag wires.