Anti-Corrosion SiOx-Doped DLC Coating for Raster Steel Linear Scales

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the efficacy of SiOx-doped diamond-like carbon (DLC) films for enhancing the corrosion resistance of raster steel linear scales. The research work highlights the significant role of DLC film materials in enhancing corrosion resistance, making them a promising solution for various industrial applications. The Raman spectroscopy analysis of SiOx-doped DLC films, synthesized via a direct ion beam technique with HMDSO vapor, revealed prominent D and G bands characteristic of amorphous carbon materials, with a high degree of disorder indicated by an ID/IG ratio of 1.85. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the amorphous nature of the SiOx-doped DLC films and the minimal impact of the DLC deposition process on the underlying crystalline structure of steel. UV–Vis-NIR reflectance spectra of SiOx-doped DLC on stainless steel demonstrated improvements in the blue wavelength region compared to stainless steel with ripples alone, which is beneficial for applications utilizing blue light. Corrosion tests, including immersion in a 5% salt solution and salt spray testing, showed that SiOx-doped DLC-coated stainless steel exhibited superior corrosion resistance compared to uncoated steel, with no significant signs of corrosion observed after extended exposure. These findings underscore the potential of SiOx-doped DLC coatings to provide long-term corrosion protection and maintain the structural integrity and surface quality of steel components in harsh environments.