A novel functional layered diamond like carbon coating for orthopedics applications

Nine types of diamond like carbon coatings (distinguish in structures and chemical compositions) were fabricated on stainless steel. Materials properties such as hardness, modulus of elasticity, coating properties, chemical compositions, and surface properties such as wettability, roughness profile, absorbed protein (γ Globulin) thickness and Raman intensity ratio were evaluated. Biotribology test was conducted using a pin-on-disk tribo-meter under simulated body fluid lubricated condition. The results including wear track, debris, friction coefficient and intensity ratios demonstrated that gradient layered DLC is a suitable candidate for orthopedics implant, which was justified by the improved material and surface properties.