Preliminary Evaluation of Diamond-Like Carbon Coated Polycarbonate

摘要

The deposition of diamond like carbon (DLC) films on polycarbonate substrate hasrecently been achieved at room temperature by Diamonex, Inc. via a unique ion beam system. These diamond-like carbon coatings have considerable potential as wear-resistant protective hardcoatings for transparent armor systems. Aspects of ballistic behavior, abrasion resistance, thermal stability, and chemical resistance of the coating and any influence it has on the impact performance of the polycarbonate substrate were examined in this study. Preliminary results indicate that adhesion between the DLC coating and the polycarbonate substrate is very good. No delamination or peeling of the coating was found on the ballistically tested specimens. In addition, a well-bonded DLC coating did not cause polycarbonate to fail in a brittle fashion. Preliminary results of its inertness to the decontaminant DS2 demonstrate that the DLC coating is capable of protecting polycarbonate from abrasion while maintaining critical agent, decontaminant, and ballistic concerns.