Pulsed laser deposition of functionally gradient diamondlike carbon-metal nanocomposites

Diamondlike carbon thin films possess atomic smoothness, chemical inertness, and hardness properties close to those of diamond. Unfortunately, these films exhibit poor adhesion to metals and polymers used in medical prostheses. This paper presents the processing and characterization of diamondlike carbon-copper, diamondlike carbon-silver, diamondlike carbon-silicon, and diamondlike carbon-titanium nanocomposite films with enhanced adhesion to Ti-6Al-4V alloy substrates. Silver forms nanoparticle arrays within the diamondlike carbon matrix in diamondlike carbon-silver nanocomposite films. On the other hand, titanium forms layers of titanium carbide within the diamondlike carbon matrix in diamondlike carbon-titanium nanocomposite films. These films were characterized using electron energy loss spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, nanoindentation, wear testing, and scratch adhesion testing. Diamondlike carbon-metal nanocomposite films have numerous potential medical applications, including use on the surfaces of medical prostheses.