Symmetrization of contact stresses in coating under frictional sliding indentation

Frictional contact problem of a layer-substrate structure is an important topic in coating optimization design. The present work carries out a comprehensive analysis on the coupling effect of coefficient of friction, Poisson's ratio, and layer thickness on contact stresses distribution. A physical property namely full decoupling under interaction between material and geometric couplings is explicitly observed. Eccentricity in contact could be virtually diminished, and symmetrization on contact pressure of non-Hertzian type is presented at a specific Poisson's ratio. Additionally, position of tensile peak within in-plane surface stress could not be affected by friction under the full decoupling effect.