Abstract: Films of nanometer-scale nodules of diamond-bonded carbon structures are disclosed. Such films may be used, for example, to coat objects to improve their resistance to wear. Moreover, because the nanophase diamond films of the present invention are of optical quality, they may be used to coat optical lenses and the like. The nanophase diamond films of the present invention have diamond-like properties, indicating a preponderance of sp.sup.3 bonds within the nodules and a substantial absence of hydrogen and graphite within the nodules. If desired, the nanophase diamond films disclosed herein may be created to have a hardness exceeding that of natural diamond, depending on the quantity of graphite left in the voids between the nodules. The nanophase diamond films of the present invention are also characterized by a low coefficient of friction, by low average internal stress, and by an optical quality capable of providing a visual appearance of Newton's rings of interference.

Abstract: Films of nanometer-scale nodules of diamond-bonded carbon structures are disclosed. Such films may be used, for example, to coat objects to improve their resistance to wear. Moreover, because the nanophase diamond films of the present invention are of optical quality, they may be used to coat optical lenses and the like. The nanophase diamond films of the present invention have diamond-like properties, indicating a preponderance of sp.sup.3 bonds within the nodules and a substantial absence of hydrogen and graphite within the nodules. If desired, the nanophase diamond films disclosed herein may be created to have a hardness exceeding that of natural diamond, depending on the quantity of graphite left in the voids between the nodules. The nanophase diamond films of the present invention are also characterized by a low coefficient of friction, by low average internal stress, and by an optical quality capable of providing a visual appearance of Newton's rings of interference.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for producing amorphic or ultra fine-grained, diamond-like material on a substrate. Uniform, high quality dehydrogenated diamond-like material is produced when a hardened target material is used and/or when a laser beam strikes the target at non-perpendicular angles of incidence. Also, selective placement of particles upon a substrate as well as simultaneous cleaning of the substrate is achieved by a secondary electrode placed within the laser beam path of travel between a first electrode and the substrate.