Atomic structure, electrical properties, and infrared range optical properties of diamondlike carbon films containing foreign atoms prepared by pulsed laser deposition

Abstract

We investigated the atomic structure, electrical, and infrared range optical properties of diamondlike carbon (DLC) films containing alloy atoms (Cu, Ti, or Si) prepared by pulsed laser deposition. Radial distribution function (RDF) analysis of these films showed that they are largely sp3 bonded. Both pure DLC and DLC + Cu films form a Schottky barrier with the measuring probe, whereas DLC + Ti films behave like a linear resistor. Pure DLC films and those containing Cu exhibit p-type conduction, and those containing Ti and Si have n-type conduction. Photon-induced conduction is observed for pure DLC, and the mechanism is discussed in terms of low-density gap states of highly tetrahedral DLC. Our results are consistent with relative absence of gap states in pure DLC, in accordance with theoretical prediction by Drabold et al.37 Temperature dependence of conductivity of DLC + Cu shows a behavior σ ∞ exp(−B/T1/2), instead of the T−1/4 law (Mott–Davis law). Contributions from band-to-band transitions, free carriers, and phonons to the emissivity spectrum are clearly identified in pure DLC films. The amorphous state introduces a large contribution from localized states. Incorporation of a small amount of Si in the DLC does not change the general feature of emissivity spectrum but enhances the contribution from the localized states. Cu and Ti both enhance the free carrier and the localized state contributions and make the films a black body.

Electrochemical and antimicrobial properties of diamondlike carbon-metal composite films

“…The term diamondlike carbon is used to describe hydrogen-free carbon solids that contain an amorphous network of tetrahedrally and trigonally hybridized carbon atoms [25] [26][27][28][29][30].…”

Nanostructured ceramics in medical devices: Applications and prospects

“…35,36 This approach to improve adhesion is based upon the theory that a more compliant entity within a DLC film may accommodate large compressive stress and lower stored strain energy. This process can occur without significantly altering the chemical and microstructural characteristics of the composite material from those of DLC.…”

Compositional and Electrochemical Characterization of Noble Metal−Diamondlike Carbon Nanocomposite Thin Films

“…[2][3][4][5][6][7] Carbon is also existent in an amorphous form, which contains a mixture of sp 2 -and sp 3 -hybridized carbon atoms exhibiting properties intermediate between those of graphite and diamond. [8][9][10][11][12] Such materials are denominated "diamondlike," indicating that some material properties are similar to those of diamond. One approach to depositing diamondlike carbon (DLC) films involves the ablation of a carbon source with laser pulses.…”