Microstructure and Properties of Multi-Function Micro-Plasma Sprayed Al₂O₃ Coatings

Al2O3 coatings were fabricated by multi-functional micro-plasma spray through axial powder feed. The flight particle velocity and temperature were measured by SprayWatch-2i. With the rising of Ar flow, the velocity of Al2O3 particles increases, but the temperature of particles decreases gradually. Al2O3 coatings were analyzed by SEM and XRD. The microstructure of coatings is density, low porosity and uniform morphology. X-ray diffraction results show that α-Al2O3 is the main phase in the original Al2O3 powders, but Al2O3 coatings consist of γ-Al2O3 and a small amount of α-Al2O3. The microhardness and bonding strength of Al2O3 coatings were also measured, which is HV0.11183~1387 and 28.6MPa, respectively.