Photothermal characterization of amorphous thin films

Thin amorphous films deposited on steel substrates by physical vapour depos ition, chemical vapour deposition and sputtering with thicknesses between 2 and 4 mu m have been analysed with respect to their thermal properties by non-destructive evaluation based on infrared detection of thermal waves. Sa mples with and without exposure to friction wear have been compared. The ma in results are that the friction effects can be characterized by their effe cts on the thermal properties, the thermal diffusivity and effusivity of th e coating. It has been found that it is mainly the thermal conductivity of the coating that is affected by friction wear and the induced stresses. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.