Purpose: The paper presents investigation results of the structure and mechanical properties of gradient coatings deposited by cathodic arc evaporation - physical vapour deposition (CAE-PVD) techniques onto the X40CrMoV5-1 hot work tool steel, HS6-5-2 high speed steel and SiAlON tool ceramics. The Ti(C,N), (Ti,Al)N and (Al,Si,Cr) N coatings were investigated. Design/methodology/approach: Microstructure was characterised using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The phase composition of the investigated coatings was determined by means of the X-ray diffractometer. The chemical concentration changes of the coating components, and the substrate material were evaluated in virtue of tests carried out in the GDOS spectrometer. Tests of the coatings’ adhesion to the substrate material were made using the scratch test method. Findings: It was found out that the structure of the PVD coatings deposited onto all substrates is composed of fine crystallites. The investigations made by use of the glow discharge optical emission spectrometer indicate to the existence of the transition zone between the substrate material and the coating. The results show that all coatings present good adhesion. The critical load LC2, which is in the range 35-90 N, depends on the coating type and substrate. Good adhesion of the coatings deposited to the substrate should be connected with the existence of the transition zone. All the coatings are demonstrated by high hardness. Research limitations/implications: Ti(C,N), (Ti,Al)N and (Al,Si,Cr) N gradient coatings can be applied for cutting tools and hot working tools. Originality/value: Working out and testing PVD coatings obtained by tool ceramic and tool steels is a special future of development direction in a domain of thin coatings.
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