Methods in the study of diamonds and diamond and diamondlike films (review)

A classification of methods used in the study of properties of diamonds, diamond and diamondlike films, and related structures is given. Optical and x-ray methods, electron microscopy methods, combination methods, ion and nuclear-particle bombardment methods, electrical methods, thermophysical methods, and other methods are considered. The potentialities of various methods in the quality control of diamond materials and structures are discussed; the precision and resolution of different methods are compared. Techniques for diamond surface treatment and for fabrication of diamond surface contacts as used in destructive methods of analysis are discussed. Diamond control methods are compared with those used in the control of silicon and gallium arsenide.