Meaning
Amorphous carbon materials that display some of the typical physical properties of diamond are utilized to provide hard protective surfaces. Application of diamond-like carbon coatings to electronic and mechanical parts lowers friction and improves resistance to surface wear. This composite material combines tetrahedral and trigonal carbon structures.
Tribological Benefit
Industrial components require low-friction surfaces to operate reliably under physical load. Deploying diamond-like carbon coatings prevents sliding wear on micro-mechanical gears, connector pins, and sliding switches. This thin layer limits friction without demanding oily lubricants.
Chemical Resistance
Corrosive chemical attacks degrade metal alloys in exposed environments. A layer of diamond-like carbon blocks acids and moisture from reaching the sensitive silicon or copper below, extending the operational lifetime of the assembly. This chemical barrier prevents corrosion.
Deposition Method
Vacuum deposition techniques form thin layers of carbon on target substrates under low temperatures. During physical vapor deposition, diamond-like carbon is applied in a uniform pattern across complex electronic boards and housing geometries. The resulting thin film exhibits high hardness and electrical insulation, preventing voltage breakdowns across the surface of the component.
This protective film also improves the heat dissipation of the housing by raising the thermal conductivity of the outer layer.
