Wear Characterization of Chromium PVD Coatings on Polymeric Substrate for Automotive Optical Components

The automotive industry is a pioneer in solutions that meet market expectations. However, the industry, some less environmentally friendly technologies are still used, such as electroplating. Due to legislative restrictions several countries, thin coatings made vacuum have been replacing traditionally by electroplating, mainly decorative terms. This work more focused on use of these for optical applications, namely headlights and exterior backlit components. Although components protected during period use, there may be situations contact assembly or their repair, necessary safeguard ensure scratch wear resistance needed withstand any treatment deficiency operations referred above. Therefore, this essentially study Cr PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) polymeric substrates. To end, previously studied now subjected micro-abrasion tests, with view assessing resistance. For purpose, alumina abrasive has mechanisms observed were studied. abrasion tests showed most stable film one provided 10-layers, showing greater well, adhesion substrate cohesive failures performed tests. Given nature coating, results obtained very promising, 10-layer can overcome careless operation manufacturing, repair processes, when applied lightning motor vehicles.