Abstract: The purpose of the paper was to assess the morphology, chemical composition, geometric surface structure and contact angle, as well as to analyse the tribological properties of Al2O3 coatings deposited on 100Cr6 steel using the technique of atomic layers ALD. Al2O3 coatings were selected due to their tribological properties, adhesion to the substrate and hardness. Tribological tests were performed in a reciprocating motion in a ballon- disc combination, with a counter-specimen of 100Cr6 steel, under the conditions of technically dry friction. Surface morphology was observed under a scanning microscope, and an EDS analyser enabled the performance of an analysis of the chemical composition of the samples. Wetting of the surface of the Al2O3 coating was determined by means of an optical strain gauge. The geometric surface structure before and after the tribological tests was analysed by means of a confocal microscope with an interferometric mode. The tests proved that during technically dry friction, the average coefficient of friction for the Al2O3 coating is lower by approximately 30% than for 100Cr6 steel. The tested coatings are characterised by hydrophobicity.
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