Abstract: A class of nanocomposite amorphous materials consisting of interpenetrating random networks of predominantly sp.sup.3 bonded carbon stabilized by hydrogen, silicon stabilized by oxygen, and, optionally, random networks of metal elements from groups 1-7b and 8b of the periodic table.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the formation of a class of nanocomposite amorphous materials consisting of interpenetrating random networks of predominantly sp3 bonded carbon stabilized by hydrogen, glass-like silicon stabilized by oxygen and random networks of elements from the 1-7b and 8 groups of the periodic table. The materials have high strength and microhardness, flexibility, low coefficient of friction and high thermal and chemical stability. Nanocomposites containing networks of metallic elements can have conductivity variable from insulating dielectric to metallic. The materials have a wide range of applications as protective coatings and as electrically active materials. Metallic nanocomposites can exhibit superconductivity at low temperatures.