Effect of nickel incorporation on the optical properties of diamond-like carbon (DLC) matrix

► Ni nanoparticles are incorporated in DLC matrix by low voltage electrodeposition. ► Ni incorporation in DLC matrix increases the adherence of DLC film with substrate. ► Increase in dilution of mother electrolyte solution of Ni acetate decreases band gap. ► Raman and FTIR spectra show new peaks in Ni-DLC thin films.