Friction and wear of diamond and diamond-like carbon films

AbstractDetailed tribological studies on diamond and diamond-like carbon (DLC) films have confirmed that these films are inherently self-lubricating and resistant to abrasive, adhesive and corrosive wear. Because of their high chemical inertness, they are also resistant to corrosion and oxidation (even at elevated temperatures). The combination of such exceptional qualities in these films makes them ideal for a wide range of demanding tribological applications (such as microelectromechanical systems, cutting tools, mechanical seals, magnetic hard disks, etc.). These films, available for more than three decades, have been used extensively for tooling and magnetic hard disk applications. Their potential in other application areas is currently being explored around the world. With the development of new and more robust deposition methods in recent years, it is envisioned that the production of high quality diamond and DLC films will become very cost effective and highly reliable for large-scale applications ...