Effect of ion cleaning pretreatment on interface microstructure, adhesive strength and tribological properties of GLC coatings on Al substrates

► It is a report about the adhesion behavior of GLC coatings on Al substrates. ► Ion cleaning was performed on Al substrates. ► Microstructure of interface between Al substrate and GLC coating was investigated. ► 400 V/30 min is the optimal ion cleaning condition on Al substrates. ► The GLC coating exhibits excellent adhesive strength and wear resistance.