titaniumnitride

Titanium nitride, sometimes written titaniumnitride (TiN), is a chemical compound consisting of titanium and nitrogen. It forms a ceramic material with a rock-salt crystal structure and is best known for its very high hardness, wear resistance, and a distinctive gold-like metallic luster.

TiN coatings are widely used in industry as thin films deposited on cutting tools, gears, and other metal parts to reduce wear, extend tool life, and allow higher processing speeds. In jewelry and decorative items TiN is applied as a decorative coating due to its lustrous gold color and corrosion resistance.

TiN is chemically stable and exhibits good oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures and in harsh environments. It conducts electricity and has a high modulus of elasticity, but remains relatively brittle as a ceramic. The hardness of TiN coatings is typically in the order of tens of gigapascals, contributing to low wear rates when sliding against metals or other ceramics.

TiN is not usually produced in bulk; it is typically synthesized by nitriding titanium or deposited as thin films through chemical vapor deposition or physical vapor deposition, such as magnetron sputtering. These processes enable precise control of thickness and composition.

The combination of hardness, chemical stability, and decorative color makes TiN a versatile coating for industrial tooling, sliding components, and consumer goods.

TiN is generally considered biologically inert and of low toxicity, though powders and dust should be handled to avoid inhalation or irritation.