Raman investigation of diamond films prepared by combustion flames

Raman analysis is carried out to establish the mixed nature of C bonding in diamond films deposited at atmospheric pressures in combustion flames. By monitoring the sp sup 3 -bonded 1334-cm- sup 1 Raman signature of diamond and sp sup 2 -bonded 1350- and 1580-cm- sup 1 signatures of graphite, it is established that under optimum conditions of flow rates and substrate temps., the primary combustion zone provides an ideal situation for diamond growth. Study reveals an a-Si sub 1 sub - sub x C sub x -like interface (0.5 < or = x < or = 1) and an amorphous diamondlike precursor phase.