DLC films in multilayer with electric conductive nanoparticles for spatial and industrial applications

Abstract

Nanoparticles used as additives in DLC films can significantly increase the properties of these films. High electrical and thermal conductivity of some types of nano particles such as titanium dioxide (TiO2), gold, copper, gallium nitride (GaN), etc., make these films even more prosperous for space applications, and expand to other industrial applications, with particular evidence for areas of health. The research and methodology of purification, funcionalization and dispersion of these nanoparticles in different organic solvents are important steps for the successful growth of DLC films with good electrical conductivity on metal substrates. The electrical conductivity and constant high growth rate will ensure multilayer and a thicker film, respectively. It is proposed, therefore, in this work the study of funcionalization of these nanoparticles and their dispersion in different organic solvents. Study of electrical conductivity and thickness of DLC films will be initially performed as a function of the density of these nano particles. DLC films properties such as the coefficient of friction, wear, thermal stability, hardness, adhesion on the substrate surface will be studied as a function of applied force, the thickness of the films and the sliding speed between body and against body. The funcionalization of nano particles should be analyzed by using FT-IR and Zeta potential. Also, the size distribution of nanoparticles clusters in colloidal solution must be analysed through the method of light scattering in nano-meter range. The growth of these films will be done using a modified PECVD technique with additional cathode, developed by the team, one patent was deposited and already has shown a better technique for producing DLC films with lower coeficiente of friction, higher hardness and density, better adhesion on substrate surface and, it is a technique less expensive when compared to conventional one. For the analysis of friction and wear two modes of operation will be used, reciprocal and rotational-linear, from a UMT/CETR tribometer installed in LAS/INPE. The hardness will be measured by using a UMT/CETR micro durometer, also instaled in LAS/INPE. The DLC film quality and the level of graphitization will be analyzed making use of Raman Scattering Spectroscopy analysis via a Horiba LabRam system also installed at the same Lab. DLC film morphological analysis will be done by using SEM, AFM and perphilometry systems, also, all infrastructure of LAS. (AU)