Electrochemical deposition and characterization of diamond-like carbon films doped with surface-capped silica nanoparticles

► Surface-capped nano-SiO2/DLC were synthesized via electrochemical deposition. ► Composition and microstructure of films at different deposition time were studied. ► Silica incorporation enhances the graphitization and wear resistance. ► Composite films show a transformation from hydrophilic to hydrophobic.