Some Aspects of Diamonds in Scientific Research and High Technology

Abstract

The electrical properties of diamond are significantly affected by the charge of the surface states of the sample. Depending on the type of chemisorbed elements, the electronic affinity of the diamond surface is changeable [36, 37]. The detection of negative electron affinity of the diamond surface (downward bending of zones, the absence of a potential barrier) determined the studies on the creation of cold cathodes and electron emitters based on diamond coatings [38].Due to the strong covalent bonds, diamond is a chemically inert material and is suitable for medical and biotechnological applications [10]. In this case, such diamond properties as low cost of nanoparticles, the possibility of surface activation by photochemical methods, high photoluminescence yield and its resistance to photobleaching, low cytotoxicity, and, as a consequence, environmental safety are used.The collection of scientific chapters proposed to the reader reflects some of the aspects, mentioned above. This collection will be useful to students, graduate students, and researchers who are interested in such disciplines as the synthesis of carbon and superhard materials, carbon electronics and photonics, surface chemistry, etc.