Multi-layer coated article

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention is directed to a substrate containing a multi-layer coating on its surface.
More particularly, it is directed to a metal substrate, particularly brass, having deposited on its surface multiple superposed layers of certain specific types of metals or metal compounds.
The coating is decorative and also provides corrosion and wear resistance.
The coating provides the appearance of highly polished brass.
Thus, an article surface having the coating thereon simulates a highly polished brass article.
A first layer deposited directly on the surface of the substrate is comprised of nickel.
The first layer may be monolithic or preferably it may consist of two different layers such as a semi-bright nickel layer deposited directly on the surface of the substrate and a bright nickel layer superimposed over the semi-bright nickel layer.
Disposed over the nickel layer is a layer comprised of a palladium alloy, preferably palladium/nickel alloy.
Over the palladium alloy layer is a layer comprised of a non-precious refractory metal such as zirconium, titanium, hafnium, or tantalum, preferably zirconium or titanium, and more preferably zirconium.
A top layer comprised of a zirconium compound, a titanium compound, a hafnium compound or a tantalum compound, preferably a titanium compound or a zirconium compound such as zirconium nitride, is disposed over the refractory metal layer.
The nickel and palladium alloy layers are applied by electroplating.
The refractory metal such as zirconium and refractory metal compound such as zirconium compound layers are preferably applied by vapor deposition processes such as sputter ion deposition.