How to use advanced nano-scale testing to deliver improved wear resistance of DLC coatings

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings can combine high hardness with low friction but they are often deposited with high levels of intrinsic stress and display low adhesion strength resulting in poor performance in demanding applications. A key challenge is to develop advanced DLC coatings capable of withstanding more demanding applications in the automotive, cutting tools, MEMS and oil and gas sectors. In this presentation, we show how data from a range of nanomechanical and tribological test techniques in the multi-functional NanoTest Vantage (nanoindentation, nano- and micro-scratch, nano- and micro-wear, nano- and micro-impact) can be used to improve the design of DLC coating architectures for enhanced wear resistance in specific applications.