Modification of DLC films by Ni+ ions implantation

Enhanced diamond-like carbon (DLC) multilayer films were produced by a method of alternating the magnetic filtered vacuum cathode arc deposition and the metal vapor vacuum arc (MEVVA) implantation of Ni+ ions. The microstructure and mechanical properties of these multilayer films were studied by XPS, Raman, SEM, AFM, XRD, nano-intender and internal stress measurement. The results reveal that with the increasing dose of implanted Ni+ ions, the sp3 contents are declining and reduction of the nanohardness and release of the internal stress are observed.