Tribological properties of ultra-thin diamond-like carbon coating at various humidity

This study concerns the tribological behaviors of ultra-thin DLC coating with 3 nm thickness deposited in a mixed gas of argon + 20 % hydrogen as a function of humidity. Reciprocating wear tests employing a micro wear tester were performed under various normal loads and relative humidity in air environment. The chemical composition of the original and worn surfaces were studied by Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). It showed that the ultra-thin DLC coating exhibited low friction with enough wear stability at low normal load (0.18 N) and its tribological behavior was strongly dependent on the humidity. The sample surfaces before and after the test were examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Capillary force and meniscus areas were discussed in order to explain the influence of humidity on the friction force.