VEGA 1/0473/24: Theoretical study and experimental preparation of multilayers based on transition metal diborides with enhanced fracture toughness

Transition metal diborides (TMB2s) belong to the group of ultra-high temperature ceramics and represent promising materials for demanding industrial applications. Unfortunately, due to inherent brittleness and low resistivity to the formation and propagation of cracks, the application potential of TMB2 films is still limited.
Research on similar nitride-based films indicates that a suitable combination of very thin TMB2 layers, the so-called multilayered (ML) system can prevent the formation of cracks or slow down their spreading and completely stop their propagation. Properly designed MLs can thus improve the fracture toughness of the films.
This project involves two approaches. The theoretical one is based on ab-initio calculations of stability and mechanical properties of TM1B2/TM2B2 MLs. The second, experimental approach, reflects theoretical predictions, where promising MLs are prepared by magnetron sputtering, in which the resistance against brittle failure is expected to improve.