This paper covers three topics: (1) the general properties and categorization of types of carbon films, (2) a discussion of some factors that must influence the growth of the so called diamond like films, (3) some results of characterization of diamond like films grown from low energy ion beams.

ABSTRACT: Diamond and diamond-like carbon films, with their exceptionally good mechanical, chemical, and optical properties, are the best materials as protective hard coatings for electronic devices and cutting tools. The biocompatibility of these materials makes it suitable for bone implants. The wide range applications of these films are hindered because of the high compressive stresses developed during the deposition. Use of carbide and nitride interfacial layers has emerged as one of the methods to reduce the compressive stresses. The present research focuses on the study of different materials as the interfacial layers for diamond and tetrahedral amorphous carbon films. For tetrahedral amorphous carbon AlN, Ta, TiN, TiC, TaN and W were investigated as the interlayer materials. The interlayer was deposited at different substrate temperatures to study the temperature induced changes in the residual stress. The tetrahedral amorphous carbon with TiN interlayer deposited at 300°C and 600°C exhibited a maximum reduction in the stress. TiN and TiC were deposited as interlayer for the diamond films on Ti-6Al-4V alloy. TiC has improved the adhesion of diamond with the substrate and exhibited less compressive stresses compared to TiN.

The present thesis is the result of 15 years of continues efforts. The research work started in 1991 and has been completed by a final publication in 2005. The content of the thesis is composed of introductory parts (giving the reader an introduction into the later to be discussed subject) and articles published by the author. At this point the author would like to draw the attention to the fact that, due to the rather lengthy process of completion of the presented thesis, the references in the first chapters have not been updated with recent new publications on the subjects discussed and therefore reflect the knowledge state at the time the articles were written. The key subject of the thesis is carbon materials. In order to initiate the reader into the subject to be discussed in the publications of the author, introductory chapters are found at the beginning of the present document. In the first chapter an historical overview on diamond and DLC is given. The history of diamond, starting with natural diamond and continuing with man made diamonds, is treated and examples of applications of diamond are described. Equally the history of Raman spectroscopy, an analysing method intensively used by the author, is presented. After the historic introduction, more technical background information is offered on the following subjects: carbon structure and properties ; Raman spectroscopy ; Diamond & DLC deposition methods Following these introductory chapters the scientific work accomplished by the author is presented. This is done introducing the different scientific articles published by the author. The first article deals with the deposition of diamond using the acetylene flame method. The key innovation presented by the author in this article is the use of a turbulent flame configuration, as the first researcher in this field, which allows for a quicker growth rate of the diamond deposit. The second article demonstrates the influence of flame turbulence on the growth of m.

This book highlights some of the most important structural, chemical, mechanical and tribological characteristics of DLC films. It is particularly dedicated to the fundamental tribological issues that impact the performance and durability of these coatings. The book provides reliable and up-to-date information on available industrial DLC coatings and includes clear definitions and descriptions of various DLC films and their properties.

Recent discoveries enabling the growth of crystalline diamond by chemical vapor deposition offer the potential for a wide variety of new applications. This new book examines the state of the technology arising from these discoveries in relation to other allied materials, such as high-pressure diamond and cubic boron nitride. Most of the potential defense, space, and commercial applications are related to diamond's hardness, but some utilize its other qualities, such as optical and electronic properties. The authors review growth processes and discuss techniques for characterizing the resulting materials' properties. Crystalline diamond is emphasized, but other diamond-like materials (e.g. silicon carbide and amorphous carbon containing hydrogen) are also examined. In addition, the authors identify scientific, technical, and economic problems that could impede the rapid exploitation of these materials, and present recommendations covering broad areas of research and development.