Tribological properties of pulsed laser deposited DLC/TM (TM=Cr, Ag, Ti and Ni) multilayers

Tribological and scratch resistance properties of pulsed laser deposited Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coatings with transition metal interlayers (TM=Cr, Ag, Ti and Ni) are studied. Remarkably high scratch resistance property is found when DLC is deposited with Ni and Ti transition metal interlayer. Transformation of I(D)/I(G) ratio from a higher value on the surface to a lower value in the wear track of DLC indicates formation of graphitized/amorphized tribofilm during sliding. These tribofilms and formation of carbonaceous transfer layer is a characteristic of easy in-plane sliding which provides low friction coefficient for the system of DLC/Ni and DLC/Ti multilayer.

Graphical abstractComparison of chemical structure of DLC surface and wear track with coefficient of friction.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (97 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Tribological properties of PLD grown DLC coatings with transition metal interlayers are studied. ► Formation of continuous interlayer of Ni and Ti is key factor to increase adhesion. ► Graphitized tribofilm is a characteristic of low adhesion and friction in DLC films.