Adhesion properties of functionally gradient diamond composite films on medical and tool alloys

Abstract

We have investigated the adhesion properties of microcrystalline diamond thin films on Ti-Al-V alloy, Co-Cr-Mo alloy and steel. Microcrystalline diamond possesses high hardness, a low coefficient of friction, extreme chemical inertness and biocompatibility; these properties can enhance the performance of metal alloys used in medical implants and in machine tools. We have adopted three methods for improving the adhesion of microcrystalline diamond to commonly used metal alloys: (1) by alloying the substrate surface to minimize graphitization; (2) by employing appropriate buffer layers between the diamond film and the substrate; and (3) by creating functionally gradient diamond-(titanium carbide, tungsten carbide, titanium nitride and aluminum nitride) composites. We have demonstrated that functionally gradient discontinuous buffer layers of titanium carbide, titanium nitride, aluminum nitride and tungsten carbide are able to control stress and graphitization in microcrystalline diamond thin films. This work on buffer layers and functionally gradient coatings should allow the development of more adherent crystalline diamond films for medical and tribological applications.

Keywords:

• DIAMOND
• CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
• PULSED LASER DEPOSITION
• FUNCTIONALLY GRADIENT MATERIALS