Abstract: A target for use in a physical vapor deposition process includes a matrix composed of a composite material selected from the group consisting of aluminum-based material, titanium-based material and chromium-based material and all combinations thereof. The matrix is doped with doping elements and the doping elements are embedded as constituents of ceramic compounds or aluminum alloys in the matrix. The doping elements are selected from the group of the lanthanides: La, Ce, Nb, Sm and Eu. A process for producing such a target and a use of such a target in a physical vapor deposition process are also provided.

Abstract: A vacuum arc source for arc evaporation of boride includes: a cathode made of at least 90 at-% of boride, in particular made of more than 98 at-% of boride; an anode, which is preferably in the shape of a disk; a body made of a material which is less preferred by arc discharge compared to the cathode, the body surrounding the cathode in such a way that during operation of the vacuum arc source, movement of an arc on an arc surface of the cathode is limited by the body. At least 90 at-% of the material of the anode is of the same chemical composition as the cathode.

Abstract: A target includes a target plate and a stabilizing layer which is joined to the rear side of the target plate. The stabilizing layer was produced by high-kinetic-energy spraying of stabilizing material onto the target plate. A process for producing a target is also provided.

Abstract: A vacuum arc source for arc evaporation of boride includes: a cathode made of at least 90 at-% of boride, in particular made of more than 98 at-% of boride; an anode, which is preferably in the shape of a disk; a body made of a material which is less preferred by arc discharge compared to the cathode, the body surrounding the cathode in such a way that during operation of the vacuum arc source, movement of an arc on an arc surface of the cathode is limited by the body. At least 90 at-% of the material of the anode is of the same chemical composition as the cathode.

Abstract: A target for use in a physical vapor deposition process includes a matrix composed of a composite material selected from the group consisting of aluminum-based material, titanium-based material and chromium-based material and all combinations thereof. The matrix is doped with doping elements and the doping elements are embedded as constituents of ceramic compounds or aluminum alloys in the matrix. The doping elements are selected from the group of the lanthanides: La, Ce, Nb, Sm and Eu. A process for producing such a target and a use of such a target in a physical vapor deposition process are also provided.

Abstract: A target includes a target plate and a stabilizing layer which is joined to the rear side of the target plate. The stabilizing layer was produced by high-kinetic-energy spraying of stabilizing material onto the target plate. A process for producing a target is also provided.