Abstract
Diamonds have long been seen as the ultimate symbol for strength and a sign of luxury. As a result, many seek to harness the power of diamond, making it more accessible and available to a wider range of applications. One such way is to use diamondlike carbon, otherwise known as DLC. With DLC, it is possible to artificially create a diamondlike layer that has many of the same properties as that of a natural diamond. Conjugated with metal, the diamondlike carbon can be used in a number of different applications, including those where enhanced wear resistance is required. This article looks into the various facets of DLC, its advantages and disadvantages, and how it can be used in conjunction with metal to create a diamond-encrusted metal surface.
What is Diamond-like Carbon?
Diamond-like carbon (DLC) is a form of material that consists of diamond-like carbon films and coatings. These films and coatings are usually incredibly thin and exhibit a host of properties that makes them highly suitable for use in many applications. These films and coatings have been developed to be extremely durable and hard, meaning they are able to resist a lot of the wear and tear that other materials may be exposed to. DLC films and coatings are employed in a wide range of uses, such as medical applications, aerospace machinery and even high-end electronics.
One of the most advantageous features of DLC is its hardness and durability. The films and coatings can be deposited at thicknesses ranging from just a few nanometers to as high as 2,500 nanometers. This makes them ideal for use in applications where wear resistance is a major concern. DLC films and coatings are also capable of providing excellent corrosion protection and a good level of thermal stability. The films and coatings also possess some cosmetic appeal, as they can be produced in a variety of colors and hues, giving the surface of an object a unique and appealing aesthetic.
Metalizing with DLC
Metalizing with diamond-like carbon offers a number of advantages. By combining the two materials, it is possible to create a diamond-encrusted metal surface that exhibits enhanced wear resistance and corrosion protection. Metalizing with diamond-like carbon can also be used to create surfaces that are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional metals.
When metalizing with DLC, it is important to ensure that the diamond-like carbon layer is as uniform and even as possible. This can be achieved through the use of a technique known as magnetron sputtering. In this process, a metal target is placed inside of a vacuum chamber, and then bombarded by energetic ions. When the ions strike the metal target, the metal is vaporized and deposited onto the surface of the chamber walls. As the ions hit the chamber walls, some of the metal evaporates and condenses onto the walls. This process allows for a much higher uniformity of deposition than other methods.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Metalizing with DLC
Metalizing with diamond-like carbon offers a number of advantages, making it a popular choice for many applications. The films and coatings are excellent at providing wear resistance, corrosion protection and thermal stability. This makes them ideal for use in applications that require components that need to withstand extreme conditions, such as those found in high performance engines and aerospace machinery.
In terms of cost, metalizing with diamond-like carbon is generally more expensive than traditional metal coatings. This is because the process requires special equipment and a higher level of expertise to achieve the desired results. Additionally, metalizing with DLC requires more frequent maintenance when compared to traditional metal coatings.
Conclusion
Metalizing with diamond-like carbon is a process which combines the strength and durability of diamond films and coatings with metal surfaces. The resulting diamond-encrusted metal surfaces offer enhanced wear resistance, corrosion protection and thermal stability. The films and coatings are also available in a variety of colors, allowing for a unique and visually appealing aesthetic.
Despite the advantages, metalizing with DLC is generally more expensive than traditional metal coatings. Additionally, it requires more frequent maintenance. Therefore, it is important to consider the cost and maintenance of the process before deciding if it is the right choice for your application.
