Quantification of sliding-induced phase transformation in N3FC diamond-like carbon films

We investigate magnetron-sputtered “N3FC” diamond-like carbon films at the nanoscale using an in situ transmission electron microscopy sliding experiment. We measure the sliding-induced changes in sp3- and sp2-hybridized carbon using electron energy loss spectroscopy, taking into account the effect of the electron beam. The rate of the phase transformation from sp3 to sp2 bonding is quantified as being between 0.009% and 0.018% volume transformed per sliding pass.

We quantified the transformation rate of carbon sp3 to sp2-type bonding during a transmission electron microscopy sliding experiment, with an in situ sample stage capable of nanomanipulation. We found that sliding on “N3FC” diamond-like carbon films resulted in 0.009%–0.018% of the total sampled volume transformed per sliding pass.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The tribological sliding interface can be observed using an in situ TEM sample holder
► Nanoscale sliding-induced phase transformation rates can be quantified
► A consistent transformation from sp3 to sp2 carbon bonding is observed over time
► The transformation does not result in crystalline or ordered sp2 carbon
► The transformation rate was between 0.009% and 0.018% per sliding pass