Abstract:
This study investigates the possibility of controlling the $sp^2/sp^3$ hybridized bond ratio in diamond-like carbon (DLC) films modified with iridium nanoparticles. The DLC films were synthesized by magnetron sputtering of a combined target. Surface morphology and elemental composition of the DLC films were studied using electron microscopy and EDS analysis. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that iridium forms nanoparticles within the carbon matrix. Raman spectroscopy was employed to investigate the local structure of amorphous DLC films depending on synthesis conditions and iridium concentration. The dependence of the $G$, $D$, and $T$ peak positions on synthesis conditions and iridium concentration was demonstrated. The intensity ratio $I_D/I_G$ was calculated, and changes in the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the $G$ peak as a function of iridium concentration were shown. Additionally, the shift of the $G$ peak dispersion from a diamond-like to a graphite-like phase with increasing iridium concentration was observed. The value of bandgap of DLC films containing iridium nanoparticles was determined, and its dependence on synthesis conditions and iridium concentration was shown. Furthermore, percolation conductivity was observed in DLC films with iridium nanoparticles at an iridium concentration of 0.9 at.%.
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