ELASTIC AND PLASTIC-DEFORMATION OF DIAMOND-LIKE CARBONS

In exploiting tribological applications of diamondlike carbons (DLC, a -C:H), both elastic and plastic properties must be optimized. We use t ight-binding molecular dynamics to generate realization of DLC, from w hich can be obtained properties and their dependence on the precursors used, and on the WC ratio. Here we analyze the elastic properties and especially the rebonding events which occur under strain. Rebonding o ccurs only at rather large strains; in some cases, it is reversible. H ydrogen has a key role in determining the number of carbons with less than four carbon neighbors, since it is mainly these carbons which par ticipate in the major plastic (rebonding) events. (C) 1998 American In stitute of Physics.