Effect of Cr Layer on the Structure and Properties of Cr/DLC Films

Abstract

This paper focuses on the Cr interlayer effect on the structure and properties of Cr/DLC films. To improve structural, mechanical and chemical properties of a-C films, we developed two layer chromium-carbon films produced by cathode magnetic filtered arc deposition. Microstructure and properties of these films are explained depending on the Cr-interlayer size. The structure is analyzed by Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, we also estimated residual stress, the friction coefficient, hardness, the elastic modulus and corrosion parameters by X-ray double crystal surface profilometry, tribotesting, nanoindenter-testing, as well as contact angle measurements and potentiodynamic polarization analysis. As a result of the comparative analysis, we revealed a substantial improvement in the characteristics of the produced two layer films. The results provide theoretical basis for the application of these films.