Implications for surface engineering of the mechanical performance of Diamond-Like carbon coatings under dry erosion

Abstract

This study evaluated the erosion resistance of DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coatings under the impact of solid particles. Modular dry erosion testing equipment was designed and built, capable of controlling key variables such as particle velocity and feed rate. Experimental tests were carried out on samples of DLC coatings and PTFE substrates, measuring mass loss upon repeated impact exposure. The results confirmed that the DLC coatings exhibited high hardness and wear resistance, but also revealed significant brittleness under continuous impacts. The tests demonstrated the repeatability of the results, highlighting the equipment's ability to replicate erosion conditions in different materials. The developed system provided a reliable and low-cost method to evaluate the performance of DLC coatings, showing its potential in future research. However, the research highlighted the need to improve the toughness of these coatings, especially through doping with other elements, to overcome the observed limitations. Overall, the equipment proved to be a valuable tool for erosion studies, contributing to the optimal design of protective coatings for industrial and biomedical applications.

Keywords: Applications, Material, Coating, Equipment.