Abstract: A hard carbon coating and a method to improve its adhesion on components and tools subjected to high loads or subjected to extreme friction, wear and contact with other parts. The metal carbide transition layer is situated between the adhesivepromoting layer deposited directly onto the substrate surface and a top hard carbon coating. The metal carbide transition layer has a denser microstructure and improved mechanical properties in order to resist failure by spalling.

Abstract: A substrate with a surface wherein the surface at least comprises an area which is coated with a coating having antibacterial and/or antiviral and/or antifungal properties. The coating includes an optional first layer, a second layer, and preferably a third layer, wherein the second layer is a hard layer comprising Ag and/or Cu, the optional first layer is located between the substrate body and the second layer, and the third layer is a top layer forming the outer surface of the area and which is tailored to allow Ag and/or Cu ions to leave the surface in a predetermined manner.

Abstract: A method for introducing a soft metal into a hard coating during a physical vapor deposition process. The method including steps of providing a substrate; depositing a bonding layer on the substrate; and depositing the hard coating on the bonding layer using vapor deposition wherein the soft metal forms islands in the hard coating.