SiOx Top Layer on DLC Films for Atomic Oxygen and Ozone Corrosion Protection in Aerospace Applications

Abstract

Every year, billions of dollars are invested in research and development for space applications, including new systems, new technologies, and new materials. DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) is a promising material for use in these applications, but its use faces a technological barrier, since it is severely etched by atomic oxygen and ozone. In this study, SiOx-DLC thin films were deposited as a top layer of diamond-like carbon (DLC) films on Ti-6Al-4V substrates to increase resistance against corrosion by atomic oxygen and ozone as well as meet the requirements for use in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The corrosion resistance of the films was evaluated using oxygen plasma, and the tribological and mechanical properties were investigated. The SiOx-DLC top layer reduced the corrosion rate two orders of magnitude and increased the critical load from 16.2 ± 1.5 N to 18.4 ± 0.4 N.